Marje Ann Cochren (Riley) was born on July 20, 1937 and raised in Wichita, Kansas. She was the daughter of Orville Marion Riley and Doris (Noble) Riley. Marje grew up with Midwestern values of faith, family, and hard work—principles that would guide her throughout her life.

On August 7, 1955, she married William "Bill" Wayne Cochren. Together, they lived in Kansas City for a short period and eventually settled on what became the family farm in Northeast Kansas near Whiting Kansas. There they raised their four children. Though Marje and Bill later divorced, they maintained a shared commitment to their children and family.

Her children are Luke Cochren (wife Carolyn) of Holton, KS, Kim Cochren Bethell (husband Doug) of Williamsburg, KS, Phil Cochren of Scottsdale, AZ and Joel Cochren (wife Christie) of Austin, TX.

Marje was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She leaves behind a large and loving family, including eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, who remember her for her warmth, wit, and sometimes tough demeanor.

Marje spent much of her professional life as a dental assistant, where she was known for cleverly distracting patients who were terrified of the dental experience. Her career reflected a lifelong desire to help others and contribute to the health and well-being of her community.

In the early 80's she decided to advance her professional growth and enrolled into the Social Work degree program at Wichita State University and graduated "cum laude" in August of 1986. She was a member of Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. She was a proud member of the Geezers.

In later years, she worked in long-term care administration and consulting, including with Deseret Health Group. In roles such as nursing home administrator and consultant, she advocated for quality elder care with a focus on dignity and compassion.

Marje served two terms on the Jackson Heights USD 335 School Board where all four of her children and several grandchildren attended school.

Marje was a woman of deep faith. She was an active and faithful member of the Muscotah United Church, where she found community, purpose, and peace. Her involvement in the church shaped much of her worldview, and she often expressed her values through acts of service and civic engagement.

She was also known in the Jackson County and Holton communities for her political awareness and passion for public issues. In 2012, Marje ran as a Republican candidate for the Kansas State Senate, District 1. While she did not win the election, she campaigned with conviction, energy, and sincerity—traits that marked her approach to all things in life.

Marje was also instrumental in bringing rural water to what is now Rural Water District #3 that serves over 2000 customers across multiple counties.

Marje was an outspoken and thoughtful community advocate. Through letters to the editor published in local papers such as the Topeka Capital-Journal and The Holton Recorder, she regularly shared her views on faith, morality, public policy, and social responsibility. Whether writing in support of pro-life causes, urging community support for the homeless, or calling for transparency in government, Marje's writings reflected her belief in the power of individual voice and civic duty.

One letter read, "This letter is written by my hand and the Lord God's love for humanity," and that sentiment truly captured how she saw her role in the world—as a messenger of compassion, truth, and justice.

Marje Ann Cochren passed away on June 3, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 87. She lived her final years surrounded by family, faith, and a community that respected her strong convictions and generous spirit.

She is survived by her four children—Luke, Kim, Phil, and Joel—their spouses, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her memory lives on in the lives of those she nurtured, challenged, and loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Doris Riley, her sisters Judy Merriman and Nancy Goulet and her former husband, William "Bill" Cochren,

A woman of principle and compassion, Marje will be remembered for her faithful service, unwavering convictions, and deep love for her family. Her legacy is one of integrity, advocacy, and kindness.

Funeral Service will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Springhill Cemetery in Whiting. Family will greet friends from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home. Marje will lie in state from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Muscotah United Church or Topeka Rescue Mission c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.