Howard Jadie Cochran age 69, passed away on October 30, 2017.  Howard is survived by his wife Deborah Cochran.  Cherished father of Shawn Cochran and Derrick Johnson.  Grandfather of De’Jere Taylor, Christian Cochran, and Sebastian Cochran; Loving brother in-law of  Leanna Cross; his dear brother James Cross preceded him in death.

Howard Jadie Cochran was the son of Jadie Cochran and Hazel Walker Cochran. His parents lovingly embraced the blessing that came forth on April 17, 1948.

Howard’s childhood was especially tempered by his relationship with his older brother, James.  He loved tagging along with James and his friends.  It made him feel like one of the boys.  His early experiences with family became engrained in his outreach as an adult.  He became a viable part of all family events, reunions, weddings, and celebrations, in general.

Howard graduated from East Technical High School in 1966.  He was involved on a daily basis in promoting joy for the student body.  He served as the projectionist for the lunchtime movies, and his film was never broken – thus his popularity was ongoing.  He also was a drummer at East Tech, sharing his talent with many.

Howard possessed a spiritual nature.  It was evidenced in his involvement with others.  This prompted him to join The Word church in his later adult years.

People also loved interacting with Howard.  It was evident that he loved people. They were heartened by his laughter, jokes, and his witty expressions.  Deborah says, Bae (her pet name) often filled the house with lighthearted levity – it chased the blues away!  Debbie also marveled at his voracious appetite.  His favorite meal was breakfast, and it could encompass grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes and biscuits – all at one fell swoop!  To this end, Howard had a marvelous relationship with Deborah’s mother. It was her particular pleasure to cook for this personified ‘bon appétit’.

Howard spent 35 productive years as an NC operator for Gould Corporation. He received recognition for his conscientious commitment to tasks.

Howard was married to Barbara Thompson.  From this union, their pride and joy Shawn Cochran was born. At the time of his demise, Howard was married to Deborah Horne Johnson, his beloved wife of 33 years. (Throughout their marriage they reminisced often about their amazing honeymoon at the Poconos.)  Howard embraced fatherhood with sincerity for Deborah’s son, Derek Johnson.

Howard has three grandsons.  He was extremely protective of them. In fact, he said, “they can’t do any wrong in my eyes”.  Indulging in fun with battery remote cars was something he delighted in doing with DeJere. They also shared an intense love for animals.

Howard’s personal entertainment included bowling, billiards, arcade/video games, and a deep seated love for all sports. He was a quintessential TV couch enthusiast.

Howard bravely fought many life threatening illnesses in his later years.  He transitioned after a hard fought battle on October 30, 2017. At the time, he was hospitalized at Summa Akron City Hospital. Some of his last thoughts expressed to Deborah were that of his gratitude for the kind attentiveness of family and friends; i.e. transports to dialysis and other appointments, encouraging, timely visits, and up- lifting calls.

Just as he loved to gaze in awe at the beauty of Deborah’s Christmas tree, he now gazes at the beauty of the heavenly lights which shine forever in his new celestial home.

Howard leaves to cherish his memory his devoted, loving wife, Deborah; two sons, Shawn (Lisa) Cochran, and Derek Johnson; three grandchildren, De’Jere Taylor, Christian and Sebastian Cochran;  mother, Hazel Cochran; father, Jadie Cochran(deceased); three aunts, Rebecca Stone (Van), Bernice Wooley (Albert), and Elizabeth Walker (James, deceased); along with a host of several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Humbly submitted,

The Family