Alma L. Cochran

Alma L. Cochran’s zest for life was evident in every chapter of her incredible story. Born on April 18, 1933, in Conway Springs, Kansas to James E. and Genevieve (Needham) Chism, she grew up in Anthony and went on to make lasting contributions in various facets of life.

A proud graduate of Anthony High School’s Class of 1951, Alma’s passion for healthcare led her to the School of Nursing at Wesley Hospital in Wichita, KS. She furthered her education by obtaining a Bachelor of Nursing from Southwestern College, Winfield, KS, and an MS of Nursing from Wichita State University.

Alma’s accomplishments in her nursing career were groundbreaking. She made history as the First Female Vice President of Nursing at the Presbyterian Teaching Hospital in Oklahoma City, a testament to her dedication and prowess in the field.

Always on the move, Alma was the beloved tour director for the OK Retired Citizens Travel Club for 25 years. Whether it was dancing—be it Square Dance or Big Band—or traveling the world, she knew how to live life to the rhythm of joy. Alma’s love for upbeat gospel music resonated with her lively spirit.

Genealogy was another of Alma’s passions, and she proudly served as the past President of the Chism Clan. Her commitment to community and service was reflected in her roles at the Masonic Shriners Wives Auxiliary and her volunteer work at the American Banjo Museum in OKC.

Spiritually, she found her home at Chapel Hill Methodist Church. A true Winter Texan, Alma cherished her time in Harlingen, TX, and as a long time Edmond, Oklahoma, resident. Epworth Villa in OKC also had the pleasure of having her as a resident.

Alma’s legacy is further enriched by her family, who were the cornerstone of her life. She was the beloved daughter of James E. Chism and Genevieve (Needham) Chism. Predeceased by her loving husband, Corydon E. “Gene” Cochran. Alma’s memory will be cherished by her son Jeffrey R. Yoe and his wife, Crisel, of San Antonio, TX; her sisters, Rose Mae Blasdel and Virginia Nichols of Windfield, KS; her brother, James V. Chism of Montreal, Canada; step-sons Corydon V. Cochran, and Clinton Cochran; step-daughter Lorilyn Ruth Galvan of Mulvane, KS; grandson Dustin J. Yoe; step-grandsons Carlos Galvan and Cory Cochran; step-granddaughters Alonna Galvan and Katie Scott Priceville; great-grandkids, Avery Williams; Asher and Ames Galvan, Roxie Scott and Ryan Schrader; and her many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Corydon E. “Gene” Cochran, her sister Rosa Mae Blasdel, step-sons, Corydon V. Cochran, brothers-in-laws, Raymond Nichols and Richard Blasdel.

As we remember Alma, we are reminded of a life that was lived with fervor, grace, and boundless energy. Her memory will forever inspire and uplift, reminding us all of the beauty of living with passion and purpose.

A come-and-go visitation for Alma will be held Wednesday, September 27, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Baggerley Funeral Home, 930 South Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034. A funeral celebration service will occur Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, 2717 W Hefner Rd., Oklahoma City, OK 73120, with burial to follow to Memorial Park Cemetery, 13313 North Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73131. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chapel Hill United Methodist Church at https://www.mychapelhill.org/give

The livestream service will start at 10 AM and you can view it under the funeral service tab under join livestream.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.baggerley.com for the Cochran family.