Robert L. Cochrane

Robert Lee Cochrane

On Monday, September 2, 2024, Robert Lee Cochrane (Bob) entered full eternity with his Lord and Savior.  He was affectionately known as Bob, Daddy, Grand Daddy, Daddy Bob, Uncle Bob, and Pawpaw.  Robert was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on April 16, 1927 to Lula Belle Minnix and  Junious Robert Cochrane. He spent his early years working on the farm with his grandpa.  Robert enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces in 1945 during World War 11.  He separated from the military in 1947 at the rank of Corporal.

Shortly after returning to Charlotte from the military, around the age of 20, Bob married his best friend and soul mate, Ruth Lee Thompson (Honey),  February 27, 1949.  Bob and Ruth were blessed with 63 years of matrimony and five children, 2 boys and 3 girls.  Bob cherished Ruth and was her primary caretaker up to her death. During their early marriage, Ruth and Bob attended cosmetology school.  Bob joined the Masonic lodge and became very active in this organization. He later became a Shriner.  In 1956, Ruth and Bob purchased their first and only home at 1347 Orvis Street which is now a historical neighborhood.  They both resided at that one location for the duration of their lives.  Bob worked tirelessly for many companies to provide for his family.  He retired from P-Kaufman in Fort Mill, SC.  Their home was always opened to relatives, as well as friends, who needed a temporary place to stay.  Bob loved working in his garden and sharing vegetables with neighbors, family and friends.  He was also known for his delicious pound cakes and homemade soup.

Bob loved New Hampton Presbyterian Church where he attended for 95 years.  He served as Trustee and sang in the church choir every Sunday, often leading, until the age of 93 when Covid emerged, limiting his attendance.  Bob was a staunch Christian who read the bible every morning, fell on his knees every night to pray, and never missed the opportunity to thank and praise his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife and soul mate of 63 years, Ruth Lee (Thompson) Cochrane and his eldest child Gwendolyn Cochrane Harris.  He is survived by his two sons:  Robert Larry Cochrane (Dorothy) of Charlotte, NC, Major Charles Donald Cochrane (Dr. Delores) of Peoria, AZ, two daughters:  Sandra Faye Cochrane and Loretta C. Arnette (Willie), grandchildren:  Mario (Tamara), Marcellus (Nicole), Carlos, Maria (Brian, Sr.), Philip (Sarah),            Charletta (Jacoury), Justin (Generra), RoShunta, Robert Jr. and Micah,  fifteen great-grandchildren, four great great-grandchildren, two sister-n-laws: Mary Sue Williams and Virginia Ross, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends and very special to him:  Doretha Leak, Deborah and Charles Dye, Dr. Ronald Dixon, Roslyn Dixon, Evelyn Becoats, and Gloria Jackson