Marjorie Ann (Hodges) Couch

Marjorie Couch, age 99, a lifelong resident of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at Rock Creek Care Home in Ottawa. Born on November 12, 1926, to Homer Frederick Hodges and Alice Laura (Howell) Hodges. Marjorie's life was a testament to a rich family heritage that traces back to 19th-century German immigration and flourished through the decades in Kansas.Growing up during the Great Depression, Marjorie experienced the simplicity and resilience of farm life in Centropolis and Homewood, Kansas.

After World War II, she married Francis L. Couch of Franklin County, Kansas. Together, they traveled the state as Francis worked with a traveling construction company building roads before settling in Ottawa.Marjorie pursued her education diligently, attending Chapel Hill Country School and Ransomville for her early schooling, graduating from Williamsburg High School in 1944, and furthering her studies at the Kansas City Secretarial School. She contributed her skills as a secretary at Warner Manufacturing Company and later worked in the business office at Ransom Memorial Hospital.

A devoted member of Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Marjorie was also a cherished member of The Friendly Paws Club. Her love for animals touched many lives as she cared for numerous homeless cats and fostered Yorkshire Terriers rescued from difficult circumstances. She was always thankful for Emily Mathis at Prairie Paws who introduced her to fostering. Known for her kindness, she and her dogs, Fergie and Misty, brightened the days of many residents in local retirement homes. In addition to her compassion for animals, Marjorie had a passion for playing the piano.

Marjorie was respected as a caring wife, a reliable neighbor, and a proud steward of her family's enduring values rooted in generations of hardworking Kansas farmers. She is remembered for her warm hospitality and deep dedication to her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband Francis, her parents Homer and Alice Hodges, and her siblings. Marjorie is lovingly survived by her son Steven Couch and his wife Karen of Lenexa, Kansas, and her daughter Lea Ann Horton and Dennis Wade of Topeka, Kansas.

In accordance with Marjorie’s wishes, she will be laid to rest beside her father. Services will be held at a later date. Marjorie’s life stands as a lasting legacy to the Hodges, Howell, and Couch families, reflecting a story of dedication, love, and steadfast commitment to community and family.

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