James Alexander Cochrane

James Alexander “Jim” Cochrane, died on October 2, 2018 following a short illness. The son of Ann Joyce Cochrane and James A. Cochrane lll, he was born on September 30, 1934 in Delaware County. He and his older sister, Joyce, grew up on a farm in Swarthmore, having many adventures that forged a lifelong bond between the two siblings. Jim graduated from The Haverford School in 1952 and from Dartmouth College in 1956. Upon graduation from Dartmouth he served his country for two years.

Jim met his wife, Sarah “Sally” Gamwell, while on horseback during a fox hunt.

They shared their love of horses, dogs, fly fishing, tennis, family and friends for 58 years. Jim always took the best care of Sally. He would whisk her into the car for trips near and far, usually accompanied by their dog, Sam. One of their favorite places was The Blooming Grove Hunting and Fishing Club where they had a summer cottage.

Being a man of great determination and hard work, Jim charged through life, always moving forward and gathering others to his side in the process. If there was a way to get something done, Jim would do it. Combining his love of people and his passion for land, Jim founded James A. Cochrane Real Estate in 1964. The oldest independent real estate company in Chester County, it continues to flourish today under the guidance of his son, Bill. Jim particularly loved the land in East Nantmeal Township. He put together a lovely farm there, where his family resides today.

Jim is survived by his wife, Sally, his children Leigh Scheuritzel (Paul), Bill Cochrane (Annemarie), his Grandchildren, Matt (Alissa), Sarah, and Tim, great grandson Westley, his nieces Anne Willcox Raymond, Louisa Willcox and his nephew John Willcox. Jim’s sister, Joyce Lewis, predeceased him.

Jim Cochrane always had a genuine interest in others, illustrated by the many friendships with classmates and neighbors that he maintained for decades and frequently over lifetimes. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, The Life Long Learning Institute at Immaculata University or St. Mary’s Episcopal Chapel, in Elverson were two of his favorites. Or give to a charity of your own choosing.

An outdoor celebration of his life will take place on October 13, 2018 at 3:00 pm on the farm at 861 Nantmeal Road, Elverson PA 19520.

Please visit www.jamesterryfuneralhome.com