Dr. George A. Cochran, Jr.

Cochran, Jr., Dr. George A., 91, of Springfield, passed away Monday, January 6, 2025, surrounded by family at Forest Glen Health Campus Rehabilitation Center. George was born August 3, 1933, in Jerseyville, Illinois, the son of George A. and Zola (Christy) Cochran, Sr. George was a standout basketball player during high school and dreamed of becoming a surgeon. He joined the United States Navy and was stationed in California in the Medical Corps and later deployed to Japan. Upon completion of his military service, he attended Southern Illinois University for his undergraduate degree where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with highest honors. As an exemplary student, George was accepted into the University of Illinois Medical School and graduated as an esteemed member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society in 1964. After graduation he completed an internship in Springfield, Ohio from July 1964 to June 1965. He advanced his education with a residency in general and vascular surgery at Marquette University. In 1970, he returned to Springfield to begin his medical practice. He was passionate about his patients receiving nothing but the highest standard of care and became well respected for his excellent skills as a surgeon. He was known to say to his staff “I only expect out of you what you expect out of me, and that is one hundred percent.” Another quote he often said was “They may be mad at me but, I’m the first one they call if they need surgery.” He became the Chief of Surgery for Mercy Medical Center and was the long-time team physician for the Catholic Central High School Football Team and later Shawnee High School Football Team. When he was not at the hospital, George enjoyed being an avid Cincinnati Bengals fanatic. He was often found dressed head to toe in black and orange team apparel, vacationing on Marco Island Florida, or playing video games and pinball with his children. After retirement in 2001, he would often be found on his bass boat, spending more time preparing his rods and boat instead of fishing. George’s survivors include five children, Beth (Dan Quinn) Cochran, Sean (Kierstin) Cochran, Dr. Kevin (Tracy) Cochran, Chad (Amanda Eisert) Cochran and Christy Cochran; five grandchildren, Madelyn, Lauren, Patrick, Anna, and Jocelyn; and one great grandson, Joseph. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two children, Steven and Chase; longtime partner Barbara Bowers; and a brother, James. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 18, at 12:30 p.m. in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME. Visitation will be held beginning at 11 a.m. in the funeral home. Inurnment will follow in Ferncliff Cemetery. A Celebration of Life following the service will be held at the Elks Lodge.