Lawrence “Cochise” Delco life has been a journey of growth, perseverance, and leadership, shaped by his Houston roots and a commitment to community and family. He began his education at JC McDade Elementary, where he was one of many neighborhood kids who shared a deep camaraderie, “all getting along well while not knowing what our future would be. Middle school brought new challenges and triumphs at Francis Scott Key Middle School, where he shined as the quarterback of the football team and ran the mile relay and 440-yard dash on the track team. Cochise even joined the Library Club, foreshadowing his lifelong appreciation for learning and teamwork. High school at Kashmere Senior High in Houston, Texas, was where Cochise’s leadership blossomed. Playing football as a wide receiver and defensive back, he earned the title of team captain, embodying a sense of determination and loyalty to his team. He was selected to the All-District Defensive Back and Wide Receiver teams, a testament to his skill and dedication. Cochise also stood out as a class favorite, being chosen as “Most Popular” by his peers. Continuing his track and field achievements, he ran the 440-yard dash and served as the anchor on the mile relay, blending athletic prowess with grit. He also joined the school newspaper staff, showcasing his commitment to exploring different perspectives. Cochise’s time at Kashmere wasn’t just about sports and academics; it was here that he met two of his biggest influences, Coach Tom Hendrix and Johnny B. Felder. To Cochise, they weren’t just mentors—they were like “father figures” who imparted life lessons that echoed beyond the football field. “They taught me to never give up,” he recalls, a lesson he has carried into every chapter of his life.
After high school, Cochise’s competitive spirit translated into a successful 29-year career in retail management, working as a Store Director for companies like Just for Feet, Office Depot, Sports Authority, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Party City. Now a District Softlines Manager for Academy Sports and Outdoors, he brings the same tenacity he showed on the football field to his career. Beyond work, Cochise has a passion for dancing and traveling, finding “peace and serenity” in each step. He’s mastered five different dances, though his favorite is Chicago Steppin’. Through his company, Big Chief Productions, Cochise organizes “Legendary 3rd Sunday,” a monthly event at the Red Rooster Club, and hosts his birthday celebration every October. His dedication to the community shines especially brightly through his charity work—hosting an annual Breast Cancer Awareness celebration and leading a Thanksgiving turkey drive.
As a single father, Cochise’s proudest accomplishment is raising his son, Terence Braxton Delco, who graduated from TSU with a biology degree and now works as a pharmacist at Walmart. Cochise attributes his strength to his lifelong faith, saying, “If it had not been for a loving and caring God, I wouldn’t be here today.” A devoted member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, his spirituality has always guided his path. Reflecting on his journey, Cochise emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with mentors who “have already made the mistakes.” He advises others to stay humble, be honest, and never lose sight of their goals, qualities he holds most dear. As he continues to give back to his community, Lawrence “Cochise” Delco embodies the spirit of resilience, a man whose story is as rich as the Houston soil where his roots run deep.
