William "Bud" Cochran
February 29, 1940 – April 27, 2025

William "Bud" Cochran, of Ellijay, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on a rare leap day, February 29, 1940, at Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta. Bud brought warmth, kindness, and humor into the lives of everyone who knew him.

He was the son of Kathleen and Rush Cochran and was preceded in death by his parents and his half-sister, Frances Summers. Bud grew up in Atlanta and graduated from Sylvan High School. He lived in Marietta for 30 years and spent the last 25 years in Ellijay.

Bud shared his life with two wonderful women — his first wife, Fran Cochran, with whom he was married for 35 years, and later Sylvia Cochran, whom he loved for 23 years and was married to for 4 years. Both preceded him in death.

Bud was a devoted husband and an incredible father. He loved his family fiercely and quietly, showing his care through constant support and a good sense of humor. He was the kind of man who made people feel at home just by being himself — gentle, kind, and always ready with a smile.

He is survived by his daughter Cheryl Cochran Anderson and her husband Walter, and their daughter Courtney; and by his son Craig Lambert Cochran and his wife Jaime, and their children Kendall and Cade.

Bud loved to travel, and he especially loved the beach — any chance to be near the water and enjoy life's simple pleasures with family was time well spent. He was also a man of deep faith and a long-time member of Hope Lutheran Church, where he found fellowship and peace.

Bud lived a life full of love, laughter, and resilience. His memory will be a lasting blessing to all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life service will be held on May 22, 2025 at 2:00 pm from the Hope Lutheran Church, located at 3295 Old Highway 5 South, Ellijay, GA 30540.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Bud Cochran.