Brenda Medlin Cochran
Brenda Medlin Cochran
Obituary
Guest Book
Brenda Cochran Obituary
Brenda Sue Medlin Cochran, 77, of Midland, North Carolina, passed away on March 27, 2026.
Born on March 13, 1949, Brenda was the daughter of the late Elijah William Medlin and Lillie Poplin Medlin and was one of eleven siblings. Growing up in a large family helped shape her strong spirit and deep appreciation for the people she loved.
Brenda lived a life centered around family. She loved her children dearly and found her greatest joy in spending time with them. Whether she was relaxing by the water fishing or watching NASCAR, she appreciated life’s simple pleasures and the moments that brought her peace and happiness.
She dedicated much of her working life to OBnova Solutions and later retired from 3M, carrying with her a strong work ethic and pride in everything she did.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Brice Cochran Jr.; her brothers, Melvin Medlin, Boyd Medlin, Howard Medlin, Louis Medlin, Brady Medlin, and Ernest Medlin; and her sisters, Edna Love, Yoular Munson, Audrey Mills, and Dorothy Yow.
She is survived by her children, Kenneth Long of Midland, NC, David Long and wife Kristie of Marshville, NC, and Sandra Smith and husband Byron of Gastonia, NC; as well as her stepchildren, Pamela Cochran Smith of Mount Gilead, NC, and Tim Cochran of Union County, NC. Brenda also leaves behind seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved deeply and cherished.
Brenda will be remembered for her strength, her love for her family, and the way she cared for those closest to her. She leaves behind many memories that will continue to live on through those who knew and loved her.
The family will receive friends at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026. All funeral services will be held at Hartsell Funeral Home, 13575 Broadway Avenue, Midland, North Carolina 28107. Burial will follow at Lakeland Memorial Park, 1901 Lancaster Avenue, Monroe, NC 28111.
Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the Cochran family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
13575 Broadway Ave., Midland, NC 28107
People and places connected with Brenda
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Brenda Cochran
Make a Donation
in Brenda Cochran's name
How to support Brenda's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Brenda Cochran's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
