Obituary of Sarah Lunsford Cochrane

Sarah Lunsford Cochrane, 81, passed away peacefully on August 29th. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Norman Thomas Cochrane, and her parents, Charles and Ann Lee Wills. She is survived by her two children, Anne Mader and Alex Cochrane, their children, spouses, and all of Sarah’s friends that she loved so dearly. She and her family resided in Reston, VA since 1975.

Born in Petersburg Virginia in 1942, Sarah developed a passion for learning fueled by a beaming curiosity of the world.This led her to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from UNC Chapel Hill, and a Master’s Degree in Library Science from George Mason University. She followed her interests around the world and through the pages of countless books. Faith and theology, art and culture, civil rights, biology, and so on were all of great interest to Sarah and, of course, she loved a good story. If to live is to learn, then Sarah lived life to the fullest.

Sarah approached life’s challenges and adventures with the utmost humility. Her infectious gratitude and compassion was impossible to ignore, and those who were fortunate enough to spend time with Sarah knew that she was a truly special person. She possessed a kindness that was rare and pure. Constantly helping those around her, Sarah cared for her family members, her community, and anyone in need of a hug or helping hand. She fervently volunteered at Penny Wise Thrift store, the Reston Hospital, Embry Rucker Community Shelter, and gave her time to many other important charitable causes. She was also a very active member within the Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.

Along with her boundless generosity and selflessness for others, she fostered a beautiful and loving family. Affectionately known to her Grandchildren as Shug, Sarah loved and led her family with grace and dignity. They are her proudest achievement, and her family will miss her greatly.