James Edward Cochran

James “Jim” Edward Cochran, 71, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday 26, 2026 after long battle with cancer.

He was born the son of Harold L. and Audrey (Dukett) Cochran on June 20, 1954 in Saranac Lake, NY

Jim’s family moved to Massena, NY soon after in 1954. Jim grew up in Massena where he attended and graduated from Massena Central High school in 1972. Following high school he attended and graduated from SUNY Canton ATC in 1974. Jim is a veteran of the United States Air Force serving from 1975-1979 and returned to live in Saranac Lake after his discharge from Air Force. He worked at Raybrook Federal Correctional Institute for 23 years as an Inmate Systems Manager until his retirement in 2004.

Jim was a huge NASCAR fan and attended several races over the years whenever possible. He also was a long time active member of Saranac Lake Moose Lodge #457

He was predeceased by parents Harold (Hal) and Audrey (Audie) Cochran, life partner Jackie (Lindsay) Lilly and his lifelong friend John Fust,

He is survived by one sister Carol (Bill) Olsker of Peoria, AZ; nieces Laurie Olsker of Colorado Springs, CO and Monica (Todd) CadwalladerOlsker of Upland, CA; great nieces Grace, Sophia and Elsa CadwalladerOlsker of Upland , CA; and his beloved dogs, "The Boys", Razcal and Brauzer as well as several cousins and longtime friend Matt Woodruff

Jim touched many hearts throughout his life, and will be sorely missed by so many.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. A Celebration of Life will be held this coming summer in Saranac Lake

Memorial gifts may be sent to the Saranac Lake Moose Lodge #457. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.