Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran dies from battle with ALS, leaves legacy of 'tireless public service'

Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran died on Friday from ALS. Cochran, who was only the second mayor in the town's history, first announced his battle with the disease in 2022.

Brooke Messina, Cochran's daughter, told the Trussville Tribune that her dad was "the most selfless man I know."

"Mom just still needs that prayer and love. Well, I guess we really all do. It's hard," she added.

Cochran first became mayor of Pinson in 2020 after serving on the city council from 2004 to 2016. After winning the election, he posted to his Facebook page that "It is an honor that I will take seriously every single day...I will work with a passion to help make our town the best it can be, alongside our great City Council."

His page often featured updates on Bo Nix's career - the Denver Broncos quarterback who graduated from Pinson Valley High School - as well as other athletes from the city like former Alabama football star Kool-Aid McKinstry and North Carolina State basketball player Kam Woods.

After Cochran was diagnosed with ALS, players and town residents alike would visit him . He told the Trussville Tribune in 2022 that his diagnosis made him reflect on his life.

"You take stock of your life, and you look back and say, 'What have I done?' and 'Have I done it well,' because I know now my time is more limited," Cochran said. "To be honest, I've looked at my life, and it couldn't be any better. I couldn't ask for more goodness or better friends and family. I have a wonderful wife and daughter. It's been just one absolutely magnificent life."

ALS is a fatal neurological disease that attacks the brain and spinal cord. It is often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease after the baseball player who was diagnosed with it.

In a statement to the Trussville Tribune, the City of Pinson said :

"Today, we honor Mayor Cochran's memory and his contributions to our city. Mayor Cochran's wisdom, strength, and courage will continue to inspire future generations. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were touched by his life."

A memorial service will take place at St. Paul's Cathedral in Birmingham, though arrangements are not yet finalized.