Obituaries
Donald “Bull” H. Bullard
Donald “Bull” H. Bullard, age 76, of Weogufka, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.
Bull is survived by his son, Donald B. “Barry” Bullard; sister, Mary “Susie” Hughes; great-grandson, Noah Rowan; and a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Bull was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Rebecca Lou Bullard; and parents, William C. and Mary E. Bullard.
Bull worked at the quarry for much of his career as a heavy truck, “Euclid,” operator. He enjoyed dirt track racing and shared the experience with his son, Barry. An avid Alabama fan, he loved his dog and companion, Bama.
He attended church at Poplar Springs Baptist Church with his beloved wife, Rebecca, over the years. After her passing he found salvation to ensure he could join her in eternity.
The family would like to acknowledge his special caregivers, Sharon Burn, Gina, Alicia and Nikki, for their exceptional care. They would like to express a special thank you to the nurses of Coosa Valley Hospice and to especially recognize Charity for her care and loving attention.
A funeral service will occur Friday, January 24, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Radney-Smith Chapel with Bro. Joe Camp officiating.
Bull will be laid to rest in Poplar Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, 330 Coosa County Road 34, Rockford, 35136.
Serving as pallbearers are Don Hughes, Troy Wilson, Steve Embry, Chase Hughes, Harvey Duke, David Morgan, and Robert Hallmark. Honorary pallbearers are Raymond Bryant, Terry Culpepper, Ricky Garrett, and Bob Reitenbach.
Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.
Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga will direct the services.
Harold Wayne Cochran
Funeral service for Mr. Harold Wayne Cochran, 91, of Alexander City, was Monday, January 20, 2025, at Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church. Rev. Billy Coleman and Rev. Mike Densmore officiated. Burial followed at Sears Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery in Rockford.
Harold Wayne Cochran, a cherished pillar of the Marble Valley and Alexander City communities, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, in Alexander City. Born on August 30, 1933, in Marble Valley, Alabama, Harold’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his community.
Harold was a graduate of Weogufka High School and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Administration in 1956 from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now Auburn University. His education and work ethic laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished and loyal career as an Insurance Agent with State Farm. For 66 years, he served his clients with integrity and dedication, becoming the oldest and longest-tenured Agent with State Farm in Alabama.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Harold was a man who loved his family above all else. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Martha Laura Boyett Cochran, for 67 years and a loving father to his children, Carol Cochran Hornsby (Larry) and Kenneth Wayne Cochran. His joy multiplied with the birth of each grandchild, Laura Hornsby Lesley (Justin), Drew Hornsby (Miranda), and extended to his great-grandchildren, Blake Hornsby, Calvin Lesley, Caleb Hornsby, and Grant Lesley. Harold’s siblings, Juanita Cochran White (George), Charlotte Cochran Humphrey, and Larry Ray Cochran (Cindy), along with his sisters-in-law, Sue Davis Cochran and Gloria Boyett, will remember him as a supportive and loving brother.
Harold was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Monroe and Jessie Vashti Morris Cochran; his cherished wife, Martha Laura Boyett Cochran; his brother, James Edwin Cochran; and his sisters, Betty Cochran Stewart and Barbara Cochran Street.
A man of faith, Harold was a longtime and active member of Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church. His service extended beyond the pews as he served on various committees and boards, always striving to embody the hands and feet of his faith. Harold’s love for his community was evident through his faithful and generous support of local churches, charities and organizations.
Harold’s commitment to service was further demonstrated by his 50 years of perfect attendance as a member of the Alexander City Civitan Club, where he held every office within the organization. He was named Civitan of the Year in 2014. His passion for antique cars found a home with the Central Alabama Model-A Ford Club, and his love for building and development led to his active involvement with numerous projects around the Lake Martin area.
Those who knew Harold will remember him as among the hardest working men they knew, with every day being a productive one. His passion for work was paralleled only by his love for people; Harold never met a stranger and was eager to engage anyone in conversation. His kind, generous, and passionate nature made him not just an agent or a club member, but a friend to all.
Harold Cochran’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of family, and the impact one person can have on their community. As we honor his memory, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come. Harold’s story is not one of an ending, but a lasting impression of a life filled with purpose, connection, and love.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to the Youth Building Fund or Music Fund at Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church at 310 Green Street, Alexander City, AL 35010, or www.cornerstone-fgmc.org.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Harold Wayne Cochran.
Jeanette Dunham Sasser Johnson
Funeral service for Ms. Jeanette Dunham Sasser Johnson, 93, of Goodwater, will be Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Goodwater Presbyterian Church. Rev. William Ronald McElrath will officiate. Burial will follow in the Smyrna Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Goodwater Presbyterian Church.
Jeanette Dunham Sasser Johnson, affectionately known as Jeanette to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 93 in Alexander City. Born on August 30, 1931, in Coosa County, Jeanette lived a life marked by love, generosity, and a warm spirit that drew people to her.
Jeanette’s early years in Coosa County laid the foundation for a life full of relationships and community involvement. As a dedicated bank teller for two decades, she was a familiar and friendly face to many, offering a kind word and a smile to everyone who walked through the bank’s doors. Her work ethic and commitment to her role were matched only by her involvement in her local church, Goodwater Presbyterian Church, where she was a longtime member, contributing to the community and forming lifelong friendships.
Beyond her professional and religious commitments, Jeanette was an avid artist and a masterful seamstress and quilter. Her creative talents were a source of joy not only to her, but also to those who were lucky enough to receive one of her beautiful paintings or handcrafted quilts. Jeanette’s love for the arts was paralleled by her passion for cooking and baking. Known for her exceptional teacakes and pound cakes, she was always generous with her creations, sharing them with friends, family, and neighbors alike. Her pets held a special place in her heart, and she cared for them with so much love.
Jeanette’s love for her family was immense and unwavering. She is survived by her son, Mark Stephen (Kay) Sasser; step-son, James Bruce “Jim” (Jan) Johnson Jr.; grandchildren, Kelli Sasser (Adam) Ellis, Matthew Stephen (Melanie) Sasser, Laura Johnson (John) Ivey, and Daniel Bruce (Amanda) Johnson; and great-grandchildren, Dean Willard Sasser, Madelynn Suzanne Sasser, Jacob Drew Sasser, William McNairy Ellis, James Keller Ellis, John Stephen Ivey II, James Thompson Ivey, and Mary Talmon Johnson. Each of these individuals was touched by Jeanette’s loving nature and will carry forward her legacy of kindness and warmth.
Jeanette was preceded in death by her father, Ausie Earnest Dunham; mother, Elo Mae Dunham; first husband, Drew Sasser; second husband, James Bruce Johnson; brothers, Horace Erskine Dunham and Keller Lynn Dunham; and sisters, Hilma Vestal Dunham, Madene Dunham Howard, Ruby Dunham Hawkins, and Opal Dunham Fox. They were an integral part of her life, and their memories remain cherished.
Those who knew Jeanette would describe her as loving, generous, and friendly. She had the unique ability to make each person she encountered feel special and valued. Her presence was a gift to her community, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Chapman Assisted Living for the wonderful love and care that was extended to Jeanette. She loved the staff and residents there and thought of them as her extended family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Goodwater Presbyterian Church; P.O. Box 72; Goodwater, Alabama 35072.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jeanette Dunham Sasser Johnson.
Melissa Anne McCowan
Funeral service for Mrs. Melissa Anne McCowan, 49, of Tuskegee, will be Friday, January 24, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Pastor Charlie Burdette will officiate. Burial will follow in the Mt. Olive United Methodist Church Cemetery in Roanoke.
Melissa McCowan, a cherished and beloved figure in her community and family, passed away surrounded by love and warmth from those she held dear. Born with a spirit that radiated intelligence, love, and selflessness, Melissa’s presence was a gift to all who knew her.
Her early years were spent in the halls of Kellyton Elementary and Coosa Central High School, where she laid the foundations of a life characterized by determination and a zest for knowledge. Melissa’s entrepreneurial spirit later shone through as she ventured into the world of online business, creating a successful platform where she sold Paparazzi and hosted engaging online events. Her work not only provided for her family, but also connected her with a community of customers and fellow entrepreneurs who became an extended family.
Melissa’s life was rich with interests that brought joy not only to her, but to everyone around her. She was known for her love of the casino’s vibrant lights and sounds, where she shared many memorable moments with family and friends. The laughter and stories from these outings will be cherished by her loved ones forever. An outdoorswoman at heart, Melissa found peace and excitement in fishing and riding 4-wheelers, embracing the beauty and thrill of nature.
Above all, Melissa’s role as a matriarch was where she shone brightest. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert McCowan; her sons, Trenton L. Mount, Timothy A. Hicks, Carlton Dejarnette, and Denzel Cannon; her adored grandchildren, Rielan Allen and Dakari Cannon; her caring sister, Theresa Ann Lashley; her brother, Danny Ray (Sandy) Mount; and her respected mother-in-law, Effie J. Snow; father-in-law, George R. Robertson; and nieces and nephews, Brittany Lashley, Zackary Potts, Conner Mount, and Katie Mount. Each family member was touched by Melissa’s boundless love and nurturing spirit, and her guidance will continue to light their paths.
Her mother, Dianne McCain, preceded Melissa in death, and one can find comfort in knowing that they are reunited, sharing an everlasting bond that transcends time.
Melissa’s love extended beyond her human family to her best friend Bentley, a loyal companion who never left her side. Together, they shared countless hours, each moment filled with mutual affection and comfort.
As we bid farewell to Melissa McCowan, we celebrate a life lived with passionate engagement and unwavering love. Her legacy will live on through the stories shared by her family, the laughter of her grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched with her generous spirit.
We honor the memory of Melissa, a woman who embodied the essence of intelligence, love, and selflessness, and whose impact on the world will continue to be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth may have ended, but her story will be told for generations, inspiring all to live with the same courage, warmth, and joy that she did every single day.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Melissa Anne Norris.
