Brenda Norma (Johnson) Cochran

Brenda Johnson Cochran, age 78 of Sparta; passed away Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 at her residence.

Brenda was born on October 25th, 1947 in Watauga County, NC to the late Walter Eugene and Maude Irene Akers Johnson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her Husband James Gene Cochran; a son, James (Jr.) Gene Cochran, Jr.; three sisters: Juanita Combs, Betty Billings, Pat Daniels; six brothers: Walter, Lowell, Lloyd, Omar, Arvil, and Bill Johnson; a step-son, Joseph Cochran.

Brenda was described as a kind, gentle lady who never spoke badly of anyone. She enjoyed working at the dairy barn and loved to walk. She was always dedicated to her family and friends.

Survivors include a son, Donnie Cochran (Angel) of Sparta; three grandchildren: Jeremiah Cochran (McKenzy), Gene Cochran, and Britteny Cochran all of Sparta; three great-grandchildren: Jacob Saddler III, Serenity Saddler, and Payton Cochran all of Sparta; a brother, Michael Johnson of Ennice; a sister, Ella Billings (Bill) of Sparta; a special friend, Jacob Saddler, Jr. of Sparta; several nieces, nephews extended family and friends also survive.

Graveside services to honor the life of Brenda will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 at Meadow Creek Union Baptist Church Cemetery in Galax, VA with Pastor Doug Combs officiating. No formal visitation will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully ask for memorial contributions to be sent to Thomas Family Funeral Service, PO Box 114 Sparta, NC 28675 to assist with funeral expenses.

The family would like to thank Richard and Jane Doughton for all of your kindness and help throughout the years, and also the staff of Medi-Home Health and Hospice of Alleghany.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Cochran family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.
 

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