Walter Lee Cochran

Walter Lee Cochran, 76, passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at his home in Nevada, Mo. He was born on Sept. 3, 1944, in Carthage, Mo., to the Rev. Floyd and Ida Mae (Michael) Cochran. On Aug. 26, 1967, he married Gail Dianne Loafman, in Carthage, and she survives of the home.

Walter was raised in Carthage and graduated from Carthage High School in 1962. He received a two year degree from Missouri Southern College and then received an Education Specialist degree from Pittsburg State University. He taught at Webb City High School for a time and in 1981 he moved to Garnett, Kan., where he was Assistant Principal and later becoming Principal at Garnett High School. Walter came to Nevada in 1983 where he was Assistant Principal at the high school. He later taught in the “At Risk Program” in Nevada from 1993 until his retirement in 1999.

Walter loved fishing and traveling. He was active member and Past President of the Missouri Retired Teachers Association, Past President of the Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation and traveled extensively throughout the state as its president. He was currently President of the local MRTA Unit and current Vice-President of Region 6 of MRTA.

In addition to his wife Gail he is survived by several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews, sister-in-law Beth Cochran of Carthage. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Finis Cochran, and his sister Lucile Paul.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 on Friday, Feb. 26, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada with Pastor Bill Platt officiating. A Committal Service will follow at 2:30 p.m., at the Park Cemetery in Carthage.

Contributions may be made in Walter’s memory to the Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation for Classroom Grants in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.

At this time there is no longer a statewide limitation on the number of people attending funerals or visitations, however those in attendance will be asked to maintain social distancing, and that people are asked to wear face masks to protect themselves and others.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.