Mrs. Patricia "Pat" Ann Cochran, age 85, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life peacefully on Friday afternoon, July 31, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 11, 1941, in Dalton, Georgia, Pat was the beloved daughter of the late Benjamin and Janie Patterson Durham. A lifelong resident of the Dalton area, she was known for her kind heart, unwavering devotion to her family, and the love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Vickie Simmons; her brothers, Eddie Durham and Wayne Durham; and her sister, Connie Fowler.

Pat found great joy in traveling with her mother and sister. When she wasn't on an adventure, she could often be found with a good book in hand, especially one written by her favorite author, James Patterson. Above all else, Pat's greatest happiness came from her family. Her grandchildren were truly the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her love, encouragement, and gentle spirit will remain in their hearts forever.

Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband of more than 71 years, Cecil Cochran, the love of her life and her very best friend. She is also survived by her sons, Gary Cochran of Dalton, Georgia, and Michael and Melissa Cochran of Chatsworth, Georgia; her daughter, Angie Silver of Chatsworth, Georgia; her brothers, Ben Durham of Chatsworth, GA and David and Gena Durham of Las Vegas, Nevada; and her sister, Lisa and Gary Burch of Tunnel Hill, Georgia. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Brian Simmons, Jessica Howard, Brandon Cochran, Bradley and Emily Stern, Jon and Brandy Stern, Cody Stern, Brittany and Dakota Mills, and Ryan Silver, Chelsey and John Brooker, Hunter and Katie Cochran, and Colton and Devan Cochran. Her legacy continues through her 19 great grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. from the Ponders Melrose Chapel with the Reverend Danny Cochran officiating. Pat will be laid to rest beside her beloved daughter at West Hill Cemetery. Hunter Cochran, Colton Cochran, Bradley Stern, Jon Stern, Cody Stern, and Ryan Silver will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at Ponders Melrose Chapel on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we rejoice in the countless memories Pat leaves behind. Her life was a beautiful example of love, faithfulness, kindness, and dedication to her family. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured by all who knew and loved her. A beautiful photo tribute was put together by Madison Stern; her great grand-daughter; that perfectly honored her life and the memories we will always cherish.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Drive, Dalton, Georgia, 30721. 706.226.4002 “Your Selected Independent Funeral Home”