Sue Ann McClanahan Cochran, 71, of Houston Road, Columbus died Sunday, November 7, 2010 in Smith Phayer Hospice House, Landrum.

Born in Henderson, Nev., she was the daughter of the late Richard Arden and Eleanor Cindy Ball McClanahan. She moved to Polk County in 1964 from Las Vegas, Nev., and was a graduate of Limestone College, Gaffney, S.C. She was retired from Bank of America after 35 years of service. Involved in numerous civic organizations, she and her husband helped to organize the first Young Democrats Club in Polk County. She later became the chairwoman of the Polk County Democrats and served twice as a Polk County commissioner; she was the second woman elected as commissioner in Polk County. As commissioner she was instrumental in bringing Hospice to Polk County.

A member of the Tryon Painters and Sculptors guild, she was a local artist and Master Gardener. &bsp;

She was the best wife and mother in the world!

Surviving are her husband of 52 years, Elton Cochran of the home; two daughters, Timmye M. Cochran (Kelly Bates) of Columbus and Wendy C. Spencer (Bill) of Landrum; a son, Darren Cochran (Vicki) of Lynn. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Michele Perry, Danielle Spade, Casey Spencer, Correy Spencer, Logan Bates and Abby Cochran, as well as a niece, Heather, and a nephew, Kirby. She was preceded in death by a sister, Laurie Kirk.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 13, 2010 in the McFarland Funeral Chapel, with Dr. Darryl E. Maxwell officiating.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Dr. Columbus, N.C. 28722.

An on-line guest register may be signed at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon.