COCHRAN, Raymond O'Neal

Raymond O'Neal Cochran slipped peacefully from this earth on November 6, 2003, joining his parents, two brothers, Roland and Vanderbilt; one sister, Margaret. Raymond O'Neal was born December 15, 1920 in Bradley, Arkansas to Jessie Andrew and Jessie Earl Cochran. Everyone who knew him was captivated by his spirit of giving and boundless energy. His life was a jubilant celebration of the spirit of kindness and compassionate selflessness. Ray touched many lives through his positive spirit and unbounded ability to give of himself. He placed people at ease through his gregarious personality and allowed all who met him to feel they were a part of his life. Our world is lessened by his passing. He worked for R. E. Wertz, Phoenix Drilling Co., Amarillo, Texas. He entered the Navy July 7, 1942. He trained as a Diesel Engine Mechanic in Southern California. He attended Aviation Mechanic School Amarillo College, and Diesel School. Ray Cochran served on the USS RAIL, USS PROMETHEUS, Naval Base, Munda Island, Advance Naval Base, Tulagi Island, BSI, USS BOTTINEAU. He was discharged with Honor with the rating of Chief Motor Machinist mate in PSC NOB TI San Pedro, California on November 28, 1945. Raymond was a Training Director of Mechanic School at the Seabee Base in Port Hueneme, California. He married Eleane Wallace in Oxnard, California on May 10, 1947. They retired June 30, 1974. They moved to Sunland Village, Mesa, Arizona, October, 1978. Survivors are his wife of 56 years Eleane, Sunland Village, one niece, Betty Jean Yates Sossaman, Amarillo Texas, one great niece, Debbie Osborn, Amarillo, Texas, two great, great nieces and one great, great great niece and one great, great, great nephew, Dallas, Texas. Services were held Thursday, November 13, 2003, at Velda Rose United Methodist Church, 5540 E. Main, Mesa, AZ. Melcher's Mission Chapel handled arrangements. (480) 832-3500. Published in the East Valley Tribune and the Arizona Republic from 11/12/2003 - 11/13/2003.