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FRANCIS DONALD COCHRAN



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COCHRAN, Francis Donald Known to most as Donald, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on November 1, 1938 in Somerville, Massachusetts, Donald was the beloved son of the late Gertrude and Roy. He was predeceased by his siblings, David, Roy, Barbara Levine (Cochran) and Helen Brown (Cochran). A proud graduate of Somerville High School in 1957, Donald was an avid athlete and sports enthusiast in his youth. Following his passion for education and service, he joined the Xaverian Brotherhood and began his career as an Athletic Director and teacher at Malden Catholic High School. After leaving the Brotherhood, Donald pursued higher education and earned multiple degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in History from Stonehill College, a Bachelor of General Studies from Northeastern University and an Ed.D. from the University of Massachusetts Boston. Donald dedicated his professional life to public service and education. His career began at Adolescent Counseling in Development (ACID) and he went on to spend 26 years in probation, including 12 years as the Commissioner of Probation for the State of Massachusetts. His commitment to helping others extended into his later years, as he became a professor of criminal justice at Northeastern University, where he inspired countless students. In retirement, Donald devoted himself to volunteering. He worked tirelessly for the Adventist Community Services Food Pantry in Stoneham and contributed his time to Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic in Cambridge. His service exemplified his deep compassion and unwavering commitment to his community. Donald was predeceased by his loving wife, Maureen (Callahan), with whom he shared 48 cherished years of marriage. He had a close and special relationship with his many nieces and nephews, who will remember him fondly for his kindness and wisdom. Donald's legacy of service, dedication to education and love for his family and community will continue to inspire all who knew him. If you would like to honor Donald's memory, donations can be made to the Bread of Life Food Pantry in Malden at https://www.breadoflifemalden.org/donate Arrangements by the Cafasso & Sons Funeral Home, Everett.