Nancy Cantrell Cochran's Obituary
Nancy Elizabeth Cantrell Cochran, age 81, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, in Collierville, Tennessee. She was born on October 28, 1944, in Memphis, Tennessee, where she was raised and remained deeply rooted in family, community, and service throughout her life.
Nancy graduated from Messick High School in 1962 and went on to earn a degree in Mathematics from Roanoke College in 1966. It was there she met the love of her life, Dick Cochran. Their 61-year marriage was a partnership marked by deep devotion, shared purpose, and enduring friendship.
A lifelong leader and servant, Nancy’s involvement with Girl Scouting began in her youth, where she spent 10 years as a Girl Scout, earning the prestigious Curved Bar Award and attending the 1962 Round Up in Button Bay, Vermont. As an adult, she continued her commitment with the Tenn-Ark-Miss Girl Scout Council, later the Heart of the South Girl Scout Council, serving as a troop leader, trainer, and member of the Board of Directors. Over the years, she held numerous leadership roles, including Chairperson and Treasurer for more than a decade, and also contributed her time and expertise on the council’s Property Committee.
In 1982, Nancy became one of three founding partners of Burleigh Consulting, a pension consulting firm. She earned certification as a Pension Consultant through the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries, reflecting both her sharp intellect and her commitment to excellence.
Nancy was a faithful member of Oakhaven United Methodist Church and later Emmanuel United Methodist Church. Her faith guided her life and her service to others. She was also a Master Gardener who found joy and peace in nurturing beauty in the world around her.
Nancy loved travel and adventure, but above all, she cherished her family. She was a proud and devoted mother to Beth Cochran (Garrett Clapp), Robert Cochran (Jennifer), and Ed Cochran (Kandis Kimberly). She was a beloved grandmother to Ben, Dori, Emily, Madison, Christopher, Rachel, and Ella, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her brother, Carl Cantrell of Hodgenville, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Cochran.
Nancy will be remembered for her strength, intelligence, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the people and causes she loved. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her leadership, mentorship, and kindness.
Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. The funeral service and burial will take place on Saturday, June 6, at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Nancy’s memory to Laura’s House at Peace Lutheran Church in
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