Diane M. Cochran Adams

Diane Margaret Cochran Adams transitioned peacefully from this life on September 3, 2022, at the age of 77.  Diane was born on September 11, 1944 in Baltimore, MD, to parents Rose and Charles McJilton.  At the age of 5, she moved from Smallwood Street to Mayfield Avenue where she attended Brehms Lane Elementary School, forming many lifelong friendships that she maintained until her passing.  This was the start of the “Sweetheart Club,” where Diane and friends took turns meeting in each other’s basements, drank Cokes, watched The Buddy Deane Show, and planned parties. Diane graduated from Eastern High School in 1962. Diane wed James Charles Cochran in a ceremony at Parkside United Methodist Church during the blizzard of 1966.  Diane worked for the Census Bureau, Heyl, Oates, Vogel Insurance, and Linz & Wright PA.  Later, she went into business selling antiques in Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania.

Diane became a mother when Kristin Paige was born in May 1970; James Scott was born in July 1973.

In 1977 the Cochrans moved their family from Rosedale to Norrisville where they built a beautiful home in the community of Meadow Stream. Diane gained many more lifelong friends within the community and became involved with her children’s schools as a volunteer through PTA and other organizations.  Tragically, James (Jimmy) Cochran passed in a car accident in 1981 at the age of 36, but Diane persevered as a young widow, surrounding herself with the support of her friends and neighbors during these difficult years. In 1995, Diane wed James Adams, whom she had known since 1983, in a civil ceremony.  They subsequently built a custom Victorian “dream home” in Norrisville where they resided for many years until downsizing and relocating to Bel Air.

Diane loved the finer things in life and was an avid collector including antiques, especially of a Victorian nature.  Amongst other things, Santa Claus figures and roosters were featured prominently at her Meadow Stream home.  She had a flair for home decorating and was always dressed fashionably. Diane also loved movies, and in her later years listened to music genres from her youth.  All will remember her innate generosity and openness to start a conversation with anyone, including strangers!  Diane could find a connection to almost everyone and she touched many lives.

Diane was also preceded in death by her stepson Heath Adams in April. She is survived by her husband James Adams; daughter Kristin Garner; son J. Scott Cochran and wife, Laura; stepson Shawn Adams; grandchildren Jamye and Haley Garner, Maryn, Nathan and Joel Cochran, Laura Adams-McClain and Heather Adams, and Brandon and Heath Adams, Jr.; as well as great-grandchildren Zayden and Athena. She is also survived by her brother Joseph McJilton and his wife, Joan; their sons Charles and Darryl McJilton and his wife, Deni; as well as great-nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Diane's name to Amedisys Hospice. https://www.amedisys.com/about/foundation/