Billy W. Cochran

BILLY WAYNE COCHRAN SR

COCHRAN – Billy W. Cochran Sr., 88, died on March 7, 2023, at home. He was born on April 23, 1934, in Antlers, Oklahoma, son of Alfred D. and Nora (Pierce) Cochran.

Billy went to school in Granger, Washington. He left home at the young age of 15 to travel around.  As he traveled to new places, Billy worked many different jobs.  Billy worked on several different farms taking care of horses, picking fruit and hops, and fixing farm equipment. He also worked in logging, manufacturing shopping carts, and owned his own mechanic’s garage.

Billy married his first wife, Evelyn Joan, on January 8, 1953, and they had six children together. They continued the life of traveling around the Western states to seek out new opportunities. They eventually settled in the Yakima Valley to finish raising their kids together. 

Billy married his second wife and soulmate, Marianne, on May 20, 1985.  They lived a full life together in Oregon. Billy and Marianne loved to camp, be with family, and worship Jesus.

Billy spent the last year of his life living with his daughter, back in the Yakima Valley. He loved being closer to his family again, especially his children.

Billy was a kind, funny, old-fashioned man. He loved his family and Jesus. Known by his children as: having a great sense of humor, loving unconditionally, and their hero.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Nora Cochran; his wife, Marianne Cochran; his siblings: Hack Cochran, Mary Belle Heflin, Lula Mae McMurrin, J.D. Cochran, Donald Cochran, Alfred Jr. Cochran and Jerry Cochran; his grandson Donnie Cochran and his great grandson Ethan Wells. 

Billy is survived by his sisters: Lucille Stowe and Sue Winkles; children: Bill Cochran Jr. (Becky), Jimmy Cochran (Brenda), Debbie Ashby, Mary Milton, Trisha Simmons (Albert), and Ricky Cochran; 22 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. As well as, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is greatly missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday April 8, 2023, at 1pm at the Zillah Mountain View Fellowship Church. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Yakima Hospice program. A special thank you to the hospice chaplain, nurses, and doctor who took great care of Billy in his last year. Those wishing to sign Billy’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

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