She was born in Auburn, New York on March 17, 1946, and moved to Tampa, Florida with her family in 1955.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Newell and Eleanor Orendorf of Tampa, and her sisters, Katharine McQueen and Ruth Fritch, both of Brandon, Florida.
She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Robert Cochran, sons Mark Bodden of Perry, Florida and Brian Cochran of Brooksville, Florida, and step-daughter Shannon Dailey of Davie, Florida. She is also survived by her sister, Christine Postek of Wimauma, Florida and her brother, William Orendorf of Parrish, Florida, as well as a nephew, nieces and grandchildren.
She was a graduate of H. B. Plant High School and had worked as a legal secretary.
Patricia was a kind and thoughtful person. She frequently visited her elderly neighbors, often baking cookies for them to enjoy, and donated craft items to and made annual holiday gift bags for the Senior Center. She loved to cook, hosting many family dinners and parties, to everyone’s delight. Her home was always beautifully decorated for each holiday. She was a farm girl at heart and loved going to their ranch in Williston on weekends, where she enjoyed gardening and caring for the many animals, including horses, donkeys, chickens and cows.
She was a big fan of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Rays, often attending games to cheer them on.
She loved going on trips with members of her family, both to the mountains of Tennessee and Georgia, and to the beaches of Florida.
Patricia will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will always remember her love and kindness!
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in memory of Patricia to:
The Brandon Senior Center
612 Parsons Avenue
Brandon, Florida 33510
