Carolyn Robertson's Obituary
Carolyn Patrick Cochran Robertson, 95, of Decatur, IL, moved to Heaven on Sunday, November 10, 2024.
She was born in Macon, IL, on December 7, 1928, to the late Ira Americus Patrick and Edythe Loucetta (Wright) Patrick. She was the third of their thirteen children, and a graduate of Macon High School in 1946.
Carolyn met her husband Rex O. Cochran while working as a cashier in the Wabash Hospital Cafeteria. They married on January 17, 1947, spending 51 years together until his death on November 1, 1998. Carolyn later married Zack Robertson on April 15, 2001, and they shared 15 years before his death on August 11, 2016.
She worked several years at Wagnor Casting Company. She was recognized and honored for being the first female estimator in the United States in a Gray Iron Casting Company. In retirement, she sold jewelry for many years at K’s Merchandise. Afterward, she enjoyed spending her time volunteering in several capacities in the community. She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church, where she sang alto in the church choir.
A life well lived is a legacy. Carolyn left a legacy full of deep love for life, family, nature, camping, reading, walking, piano, all kinds of music, U of I basketball, and a challenging game of scrabble. She was known for her smiles, laughter, and positive outlook on life. Not to mention her vast vocabulary and correct pronunciation of words (much to the dismay of her children and grandchildren).
Carolyn leaves behind to cherish her memory: children, Steven (Chris) Cochran of Sierra Vista, AZ, Ann (Tom) Meeker of Muscatine, IA, and James (Donna ) Cochran of Decatur, IL; stepchildren, Mary Aubert-Allen of Decatur, IL, and Kim (Jackie) Robertson of Marco Island, Fl; sister, Lila Atherton of Phoenix, AZ; sister-in-law, Gerry Patrick of Horsehead, NY; brothers, Cecil Patrick of New Burn, NC, an Carl (Joyce) Patrick of Decatur, IL; grandchildren, Robin (Mark) Leighton, Brian (Andrea) Aubert, Jamie (Cassie) Meredith, Cody Cochran, Ky Cochran, Koleton Cochran, Matt Meeker, Tracy Smith, Luke Meeker, Corie Book, and Dottie Bradley; thirteen great-grandchildren, and too many nieces and nephews to count.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by: first husband, Rex Cochran and second husband, Zack Robertson; daughter, Dayle Irwin; sisters, Zelpha Carpenter, Iris Cutrell, Lynda Dingman, Nila Hudson, and Nancy Holt; brothers, Dwight Patrick, Bill Patrick, Ray Patrick, and Joe Patrick.
Carolyn’s family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 11:00 am, officiated by Juanita Spangler. Immediately following, Carolyn will be laid to rest in Graceland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a Dementia or Alzheimer's research fund of your choosing.
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