Marjorie "Marge" Cochran (née Griffin), beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, in Eugene, Oregon, at the age of 88. Born on January 13, 1938, Marge lived a life marked by love, thoughtfulness, and dedication to her family and community.

Marge grew up in Terre Haute, Indiana, and then graduated high school in Princeton, New Jersey. She pursued her passion for education with her signature determination. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Ohio Wesleyan University and later achieved a Master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Oregon. Her career as an elementary school librarian spanned more than two decades, during which she inspired countless young minds with her love of books and learning. Among those were the four children and later her six grandchildren, all of whom benefitted from her passion for books and learning. She brought up and nurtured this family with her beloved husband of 65 years, Tom.

Marge was known for her sharp intellect and quiet strength. Though she was not always the first to speak, her words carried weight and wisdom when she did. Her thoughtful nature extended to all aspects of her life—whether she was tending to her garden, baking something special for loved ones, contributing to church and community gatherings, or losing herself in the pages of a good book. She also enjoyed many travels with Tom, Oregon Ducks basketball, and every cherished moment spent with her family.

Marge’s life was enriched by her close relationships with those around her. She is survived by her daughter Beth Cochran Thomsen (Jim); sons Brian Cochran (Evelyn), and Tim Cochran (Carol); six grandchildren who brought great joy to her throughout the years (Tatum Cochran, Trina Cochran, Laura Searcy, Anna Thomsen, Georgia Thomsen, Kate Thomsen); and son-in-law Eric Searcy, as well as several extended family members with whom she regularly connected at family reunions she helped spearhead. She was predeceased by her husband Tom Cochran; daughter Katherine Searcy (Kathy Cochran); sister Carolyn Griffin Hopkins; and other cherished family members who undoubtedly welcomed her with open arms.

Those who knew Marge will remember her as a steady presence and a soul full of love who gave care and attention freely to anyone fortunate enough to be part of her life. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

May Marge’s memory bring comfort to all who loved her.

A celebration of life service will be held at our dear friend’s farm, Northern Lights Christmas Tree Farm, on Friday, May 8, 2026. Join us from 2pm-5pm. Parking and wheelchair/walker access available.

Memorial gifts may be made to:

Springfield Education Foundation, memo “Elementary Libraries” https://springfieldeducationfoundation.charityproud.org/Donate

or Ebbert Memorial United Methodist Church https://ebbertumc.org/