of Batesville, AR
May 22, 1935 - March 26, 2024
Elmer Lee Cochran, Jr., died peacefully at home Tuesday morning, March 26, 2024.
He was born May 22, 1935 in Conway, Arkansas to Elmer Lee Cochran, Sr. and Margaret Lucille (Gray) Cochran.
Elmer graduated from Batesville High School in 1953. He attended U of A at Fayetteville. He served in the United States Army and the National Guard. He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene where he served many years on the board, finance and building committee. At age 12 he started working in the family business where he ultimately became the successor owner of Ideal Baking and Distribution Companies. After retiring, his love for traveling became his next pleasure in life.
Elmer was a visionary which was beyond what some could comprehend. He was bigger than life. Because his parents wouldn't buy him a car, at the age of 14 he began to build his very first car out of various car parts from junk yards. His parents were so surprised the day it started up. He completed it at the age of 16. His gifted determination conquered. His hotrod became legal when the Sheriff assisted him to the revenue office to title it as a one of a kind ''Lincoln, Packard, Mercury''.
Elmer had a handshake that validated his word as oath. He never backed down from a challenge, instead he embraced it as an opportunity. His motto for success was three things: dedication, determination, and positive attitude. He loved his family and enjoyed summer vacations together. He and Debbie traveled the United States taking in the grandeur of God's creation. He had a heart of gold beneath the powerful force he portrayed. He never wanted recognition for his outreach for those in need. Most important of all, no matter the battle he knew the Lord had his back. He loved the Lord and praised him every day in his daily prayers. He loved the ''Lords Prayer''.
Survivors include his wife, whom he married April 2, 1993, Deborah (Allred) Cochran of the home; two sons, Elmer Lee Cochran III of Batesville, Adam Farley of Little Rock; one daughter, Deborah Shellenberger (John) of Batesville; one sister, Mary Woodsmall of Batesville; six grandchildren, Courtney Cochran, Caylee Cochran (Herman), Caroline Cochran, John Marc Shellenberger (Alison), Rachel Shellenberger, Michael Shellenberger; three great-grandchildren, Jack, Emma, and Esther Shellenberger; Father-in-law, Charles Allred, Sister-in-law, Marion Allred, Brother-in-law, Doug Allred (Sherry) Cousin, Jeff Lybrand and several other nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, James Lee Cochran, and one sister, Sarah Boone.
The family would like to offer a special heartfelt thank you to Teresa Martin of Allheart Senior Care for all the love and tender care she gave to Elmer, to Patty Mason, and also to Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care.
Pallbearers are Doyle Emerson, Phillip Pickett, Keith Mason, David Anderson, Rick Buie, and Todd Weber. Honorary pallbearers are John Harrison, Russ Amos, Ralph Huntsman, Charlie Williams, John Mark Williams, Troy Baxter, Bernard Sexton, Thomas Floyd, Tony Roepcke, Jeff Fowler, and Steve McMahan.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00pm Monday, April 1, 2024 at the Roller-Crouch Funeral Home with Pastor Warren Foxworthy, Dr. Roberta Bustin and Robert D. Ferguson officiating.
Visitation will be from 11:00am until service time. Memorials may be made in his honor to the First Church of the Nazarene, 1611 Harrison St, Batesville, AR 72501.
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30 Condolence(s)
Donna Moore Powers
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
My dad, Don Moore, was lifelong friends with Elmer. Elmer was a faithful friend, trusted confidant, and one of the most genuine people I’ve ever known. Being a young child, I witnessed his enthusiasm for toys (from pinball machines to old cars) and his big as life laugh and smile. As an adult, I witnessed his deep friendship with my dad when my dad hit a rough patch. After moving to western NY to be close to me and my family, Elmer and my dad kept in touch with occasional phone calls. I’m comforted knowing Elmer was well taken care of and will be greeted in Heaven both those who passed before him.
Jimmy and Ladene Bray
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Debbie,
Jimmy and I are so sorry for your loss. Elmer, Jr. was a great guy and will be missed by many in this community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Jan Burrow Qualls
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Rest in Peace ...
Donna Moore Powers
Monday, April 1, 2024
My dad, Don Moore, was lifelong friends with Elmer. Elmer was a faithful friend, trusted confidant, and one of the most genuine people I’ve ever known. Being a young child, I witnessed his enthusiasm for toys (from pinball machines to old cars) and his big as life laugh and smile. As an adult, I witnessed his deep friendship with my dad when my dad hit a rough patch. After moving to western NY to be close to me and my family, Elmer and my dad kept in touch with occasional phone calls. I’m comforted knowing Elmer was well taken care of and will be greeted in Heaven both those who passed before him.
Mike Foster
Sunday, March 31, 2024
Debbie and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time, and the days ahead . Mike and Lisa Foster
Kim Fryer
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Prayers of Peace for the entire Family, in Celebration of Elmer’s incredible Life.. God has special plans for this man, since “He” is the Bread of Life, I believe the Bread maker will have something to teach & share up there. The Lord truly graced this world with Elmer…who gets to spend this Easter Heaven bound with the King of Kings.
Betty Burge Cockrill
Thursday, March 28, 2024
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I pray that our precious Lord will wrap His loving arms around each of you and give you peace and comfort during the days ahead.
DAVID & CAROL CONNER
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie we were sorry to hear about your loss. Elmer definitely liked his cars. He will be missed by all of us.
Lisa Allred Cox
Thursday, March 28, 2024
What a mighty man of God!! Many prayers for you all.
Kenton "Kinky" & Mary Guenzel Jr
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie and family, I was saddened to learn of Juniors passing. I literally knew him all my life. My aunt and uncle lived next door to Elmer Sr. And Ms Lucille. I was a little kid when he was working on his cars. He was a fine man. He always made it a point to speak, shake my hand and ask about my Mother. He will be missed.
Debbie and Earnest Tate
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie we are so sorry to hear about Elmer. I really enjoyed seeing you both at Corrines when you came in. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Deanna Stout
Thursday, March 28, 2024
My thoughts and prayers are with the Cochran family. Prayers for peace and understanding at this sad time. God bless all of you.
Mary J. Snapp Matthews
Thursday, March 28, 2024
So sorry to hear of Elmer's passing. Will keep you in my heart & pray for you all. Our families use to live on the same street, & all of us kids played together just almost nightly, in our little Maple Street neighborhood. Those good time were & will always have a special place in my heart. Again, I'm so sorry to hear this.
Charles Henry (Henny) Beel
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Condolence and prayers to family. Elmer was a special man, one that always had time to listen and offer a word of encouragement. And, I do remember the hot rod Lincoln, Mercury Packard...One of a kind just as he was.
Alicia (Morrison) Whitmer
Thursday, March 28, 2024
I’m so sorry to hear of Elmer’s passing. I remember visiting my grandpa, John at the Baking company when I was a child and visiting Elmer there too. I always enjoyed hearing stories of their unwavering friendship. Sending a hug and prayers to your family.
Nancy Floyd Cantrell
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Remembering a dear friend and wonderful supporter of women in ministry. Prayers to the family.
Betty Gaither
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie I am so sorry to hear of Elmer’s passing, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Billy Meeks
Thursday, March 28, 2024
So sorry Mrs Debra. I had a lot of respect for Elmer and looked up to what he stood for. Prayers
Jr & Suzie Beshears
Thursday, March 28, 2024
So sorry for your loss. He was as fine person as we have ever met. You always could count on him making time for sincere and caring conversation. Prayers for you all.
Harlie Patterson
Thursday, March 28, 2024
So sorry to hear of the passing of this talented, kind, generous brother and child of. God.
Love you, Debbie and family
Harlie and Myrna
Nick & Katrina Fudge
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Nick & I am so sorry to hear of Elmer’s passing. He was a wonderful, hard working man who loved his family. Praying that the Lord will give you comfort and strength.
Paula Byrd
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie I’m so sorry to hear about your husbands death. I know you will miss him so much. Please know I’m praying for you as you go thru the next few days. May God comfort you and give you a peace that passes all understanding. God bless you and keep you.
Lora Beck Camden
Thursday, March 28, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great friend to me through all my years in the car business in Batesville. I know he will be missed. Prayers for all the family.
LINDA RANSOM
Thursday, March 28, 2024
My deepest condolences to the entire family with this loss. What a beautiful life, full of energy and love for others. What a great loss to the community. Prayers for comfort at this time.
Angela Goodwin
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Our deepest condolences and so sorry for your loss. Elmer was a good man and not soon to be forgotten.
Sue
Thursday, March 28, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family.
Sheila Vest
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Ms. Debbie, I'm so sorry to read this. We have assurance he is in the arms of Jesus. Prayers for peace and comfort. Love you
Regina Weaver
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie, I am so sorry to learn that Elmer has moved on to his new home in Heaven...I know that he won't hurt anymore. We will all surely miss him here on Earth, though. Keeping you in my prayers, and hugging you in my thoughts.
Kitty Skinner Wilson
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie, I am so sorry to hear of Elmers passing! Many prayers for you.
Stacy Pretty
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Debbie, I am so saddened to hear this. You and your sweet family will be in my prayers.