Brenda Kay Pate

Brenda Kay (Cochran) Pate, known affectionately as "Mamma Lou", passed away after a lengthy illness, on October 6, 2025, in Robinson, Illinois, at the age of 63. Born on July 31, 1962, in Flora, Il to Harlen Cochran and Myrtle Eileen (Lister) Cochran, Brenda Kay grew up with a zest for life and a kind heart, traits that would define her throughout her years.
Brenda Kay completed her education at Clay City High School in 1980 then went on to dedicate many years of service as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at The United Methodist Village in Lawrenceville, Il. Her work there touched many lives, providing comfort and care to those in need. In addition to her professional career, Brenda Kay was an entrepreneur at heart, selling AVON products from her home, which allowed her to connect with her community on a more personal level.
She is survived by her loving partner, Roger Dale Walls, Bridgeport, IL and her cherished daughters, Mrs. Angie (Mark) Leckington of Cookeville, TN; Cathy L. Pate- Mick of Oblong, IL; and Amy (Ronnie) Stafford, of Bloomington Springs, TN. Brenda was a beloved sister to Gary (Carla) Cochran of Olney, IL, Barbara (Brian) Spurlock of Olney, IL; Connie (Don) Bangert of Beaver, WA; and Kathy Larzelier of Dale, IN. She held a special place in the hearts of her siblings. Her sister-in-law, Misty Cochran of Clay City, IL, will also fondly remember Brenda Kay's warm spirit. Also surviving are ten grandchildren James and Johnathan McPherson, Kaylee and Jessica Mick of Oblong, IL; Calvin (Rhea) Stafford of Gainesboro Tn, Makayla and Corbin Stafford of Bloomington Springs, TN; Michael (Tiffeny) Plock, Vanessa (Matt) Ealey of Cookeville, TN; and Haylie (Victor) Balderas, Vinemont, AL. There are ten great grandchildren as well; Wyatt, Ila, Lydia and Nataleigh; Waylon, Sullivan and Rook; Ramona, Millie Belle and Bonnie Balderas. Brenda is survived by many nieces and nephews.
Preceding Brenda in Death were her parents, her husband James Archie Pate in 1984, her brother Robert Cochran; two sons-in-law Michael McPherson and Charles Mick Jr.; and a brother-in-law Steve Larzelier.
Brenda Kay's faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through good times and challenging moments with unwavering conviction. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, embracing the great outdoors with enthusiasm. As a child, she experienced the thrill of the open road, sitting on a pillow on the gas tank of his father's motorcycle. This love for adventure continued into adulthood, as she relished riding four-wheelers with her partner, Roger Dale Walls, and her grandchildren, sharing with them the beauty of nature and the excitement of exploration. Brenda had a loving interest in Native American Art, Music and had attended many "Pow Wows" in her lifetime.
Stock Car Races at Red Hills Raceway near Lawrenceville, IL, were among Brenda Kay's favorite pastimes. She was a familiar face at the track, where she enjoyed the roar of the engines and the camaraderie of fellow racing enthusiasts. Her passion for the sport was infectious, and she was always eager to share this joy with friends and family.
Brenda Kay's life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the value of service to others. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched, both through her professional work and her personal interactions. She will be deeply missed, remembered fondly, and celebrated for the full and vibrant life she led. Brenda Kay's journey on earth has concluded, but her spirit will remain a guiding light for all who knew and loved her.
A visitation will be held on Monday October 13, 2025, from 2:00 pm until the Celebration of Life Service at 4:00 pm with Dr. Fred Scott officiating at Pulliam Funeral Home in Oblong, IL. Following services, Brenda Kay's interment of cremated remains will follow in the St. Francisville Cemetery, and rural Lawrence County, IL at a later time.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Brenda K. Pate Memorial % Pulliam Funeral Home in Oblong to assist with final expenses.