Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran passed away Friday following a long, hard-fought battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Cochran, who served the city since it became incorporated as a city councilman and eventually as mayor, left an everlasting impact on the city with his love for community and local sports.
As the voice of the Pinson Valley High School Indians, Cochran was honored when the school named the press box at Willie Adams Stadium the Joe Cochran Press Box. He held annual fundraisers for the football team and encouraged young men to take part in the sport.
During his battle with ALS, Cochran continued his commitment to the city by attending city council meetings in his wheelchair as he communicated through a computer.
His dedication was honored with visits from Bo Nix and Kool-aid McKinstry, to whom he presented a key to the city.
"I'm saddened to hear of the loss of Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran," said U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery). "Joe will be remembered for his life of service and, of course, as the voice of Pinson Valley High School football. My prayers are with his wife June, his daughter Brooke, and all those who loved him."
Cochran also served as the executive director of the Pinson Education Foundation.
He was diagnosed with ALS in July of 2022 after he realized his hands were making strange movements, and he began to limp. He told The Trussville Tribune the diagnosis made him look at his life and realize he had a good one.
"To be honest, I've looked at my life, and it couldn't be any better," he said. "I couldn't ask for more goodness or better friends and family. I have a wonderful wife and daughter. It's been just one absolutely magnificent life."
Funeral arrangements have not been finalized.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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