Tau Kappa Epsilon Mourns Loss of Jean Brown Cochran

It is with great sadness that the Offices of the Grand Chapter announce the passing of Jean Brown Cochran, at age 93, on June 6, 2021. Jean is the wife of the late Past Grand Prytanis Lenwood S. Cochran. The two were married for 71 years and initially met on a blind date and married on August 18, 1949. The Jean Cochran Fraternity Dedication Award, named in her honor and established in 1999, is Tau Kappa Epsilon's highest award given to non-members.

"I miss Lenwood and Jean dearly. I miss them as both a Fraternity brother and as really close personal friends. Our families used to vacation together in Myrtle Beach. Our kids were very close friends. Jean was the light of the Cochran household—Never met a stranger—and charmed all of the Tekes with her beautiful southern accent. She has entertained many Tekes in their home over the years, both from Lenwood’s chapter and regional volunteers. And she was an organizer and leader amongst the women at Conclaves and regional events."

- Bruce B. Melchert
  Past Grand Prytanis
  (Beta-Theta, Missouri-Columbia)

A graduate of Pacolet High School and Winthrop College, she did graduate work at Furman University. She began her teaching career in Woodside Mill Village, where she taught sixth and seventh graders. Teaching was Jean’s lifelong passion, and she never considered any other profession. She often said that teaching a child to read was the most thrilling part of the job.

Jean was the first teacher hired when Christ Church Episcopal School opened in 1959; she spent the rest of her education career there. She was honored in many ways, including being the recipient of the Mary K. Roper Distinguished Service Award. A school dining room was named in her honor and, upon her retirement, the school recognized her with Jean Cochran Day.

Birdwatching was one of her favorite pastimes. Sitting in the den with Lenwood watching the birds eat from the feeders at the back of their home was always enjoyable.

The Tau Kappa Epsilon family mourns the loss of Jean and Lenwood. You will be missed.

Past Recipients of the Jean Cochran Fraternity Dedication Award include:

• Annie Hanson - August 2019
• Jennifer Campbell - August 2017
• Jeri Barr - August 2015
• Karen Moy - August 2013
• Sheryl Songer - August 2011
• Janice Romig - August 2009
• Natalie Johnson - August 2009
• Kathy Fite - August 2007
• Kitson Fisher - August 2005
• Jeanne Melchert - August 2003
• Sharron Planck - August 2001
• Karen LaBranche - August 1999