Margaret Cochley Powell

Margaret "Peggy" Cochley Powell, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and tireless advocate for the natural world, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, in her Jacksonville home, surrounded by the love of her family. Up until the end, Peggy found joy in reminiscing about her long and wonderful life, her family and dear friends, and the many adventures she and her husband shared across the globe. She was truly a world traveler, visiting many countries in search of rare birds, or just sightseeing with her husband Hugh. Places she visited to watch birds with her sister and best friend Mary Davidson included Machupicchu in Peru, and the tropical rainforests in Venezuela and Panama. She and Hugh also visited Africa, Argentina, China, and many countries in Europe. Her travels in the US included almost all the states, with many trips to Alaska, including the very remote Island of Attu.

Born on November 7, 1928, in Vineland NJ , to Alma Lee and Herbert Light Cochley, she moved to Jacksonville, Florida at the age of two in 1930. Peggy graduated from Landon High School in 1944. As a 16 year old she won a scholarship given by Pepsi Cola company for full tuition at Vassar College which included $25 per month for expenses!

She graduated from Vassar as Valedictorian and a Phi Beta Kappa with honors. She was a lifelong active member of Swaim Memorial Methodist Church in San Marco, and taught the kindergarten class there for many years. She later brought her passion for education to the Bartram School as a teacher.

An avid birdwatcher and environmental champion, Peggy taught more than 20,000 students about the importance of birds during her time as President of the Duval County Audubon Society. Her legacy includes leading the charge to protect Guana State Park in the 1980s and fighting for the conservation of shorebirds at Huguenot Park. She compiled data for the Florida Breeding Bird Atlas for years and could proudly identify over 170 bird species in her own backyard.

Her life list of birds topped 700 species! One of her favorite pursuits was conducting the Christmas Count of all birds in Duval County for the Audubon Society, coordinating several teams of counters covering all of the County, which she did for over 40 years.

Her love story with Fitzhugh Powell began at the San Jose Country Club, where they were married in 1950 and recently celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary. Their partnership was filled with adventure, family, and a shared dedication to their community. Together, they raised three sons, Fitz, Billy, and Tommy, and created a lifetime of cherished memories. Along with all of her outdoor activities, she particularly loved the beach, and spent many hours with her family there, searching for shark teeth and colored beach glass. Peggy was also a co-captain of the San Jose CC tennis team, showcasing her competitive spirit and love for the sport.

Peggy is survived by her husband, Fitzhugh; her sons, Fitz (Patricia) Billy (Alice) and Tommy; grandchildren, Benjamin Knox (Amanda), Alejandro, Virginia Margaret, Kelly, and Billy; great grandchildren, Emerson and Knox who will all carry her spirit forward. The family extends heartfelt thanks to her devoted caregivers, Jackie Dostie, Kelliene Potts, Nancy Palladino, Regina Johnson, Vernice, Lloyd their loving support.

A memorial service will be held at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge on September 24 at 3:00 PM. A Celebration of Life to follow at San Jose Country Club afterwards.

All are welcome! In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Peggy's honor to Florida Audubon Society, 4500 Biscayne Blvd., #350, Miami, FL 33137, a cause that was dear to her heart.