1936-2026
Dorothy was born on October 18, 1936, in Loop, Texas, to Luck Simpson Turner and Florence Lamesa (Teague) Turner. On May 29, 1955, she married the love of her life, Coy LaVon Cochran, in Slaton, Texas.
For many years, Dorothy faithfully delivered Meals on Wheels, continuing to serve others until she was 80 years old. She was also a talented seamstress, and folks around Ballinger knew that if something needed sewing, Dorothy was the woman to call. Her sewing was more than just a skill; it was another way she showed her love. Countless friends, neighbors, and family members benefited from her talented hands.
But of all the things Dorothy did in her lifetime, nothing meant more to her than her family. Being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was where her heart truly belonged. When two of her great-granddaughters, Asia Cochran and Makayla Black, needed someone to raise them, Dorothy opened her home without hesitation. She loved and raised them as her own, giving them the guidance, and unconditional love that they needed.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Coy LaVon Cochran; her parents, Luck Simpson Turner and Florence Lamesa (Teague) Turner; her son, Steven Cochran; and her grandson, Brandon Cochran.
She leaves behind her loving daughters, Robin Klaras of Ballinger, Texas, Shelly Lerch and husband Mark of San Angelo, Texas, and Valerie Carlisle of Ballinger, Texas; 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren with 1 on the way.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Ballinger Home Health and Hospice, especially Dr. Karen Rightmire, for the extraordinary care, kindness, and compassion shown during Dorothy's final days. They are especially grateful for the support extended not only to Dorothy but also to her daughter Robin. The comfort they provided during such a difficult time meant more than words can express.
A memorial service celebrating Dorothy's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, in the chapel at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger, Texas.
Dorothy spent her life doing the little things that, in the end, turned out to be the big things. Delivering meals, being a seamstress for the community, and opening her home to those that needed it the most will always be the most beautiful pieces of Dorothy’s life. If you knew Dorothy, she didn’t just tell you she loved you, she always made sure you knew just how much.
