Donelda Joyce Cochran's Obituary
Donelda Joyce Cochran died on October 12, 2025, at The Woodlands Health Care Center in Leesville, Louisiana, from cancer, at age 90. Born October 6, 1935, in Anthony, Kansas, Donelda's life was woven with love, creativity, and cherished relationships.
Donelda was the daughter of Lloyd and Edna Christiansen and was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Christiansen; her mother, Edna Elbe Christiansen; her brother, Morris Christiansen; and her sisters, Christine Hobbs and Flossie Brotton. The support from her family helped her build her own legacy that continues today.
Donelda is survived by her three sons: Jeffrey Cullop of Wichita, Kansas; Creighton Cullop and his wife Teresa of Anthony, Kansas; and Maynard Cullop and his wife Wanita of Leesville, Louisiana. She was a proud grandmother to an extensive family, including Daniel and Kayla Cullop, Matthew and Amanda Claxton, Nic Cullop, Tabitha and Brandon Bandy, Tiffani Claussen, Neven Cullop, Tina McEathron, Donna Shaffer, Sarah Francis and her husband Shane Cowley, and Gary and Virginia Shaffer. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren—Ella Cullop, Rosalie Claxton, Trevor Cullop, Carson Bandy, Mason Bandy, Emersyn Bandy, Tiana Claussen, Jake Claussen, Melissa McEathron, Shane McEathron, Robert Shaffer, Chrystal Majors, Anthony Shaffer, Gabriel Cowley, and Austin Cowley—as well as 9 great-great-grandchildren.
A woman of many passions, Donelda found joy in crocheting, gardening, and spending time with her family and friends. Her crocheted Afghans, lovingly made for family members, were more than just blankets; they were a tangible expression of her deep, abiding love. Each careful stitch held a piece of her generous spirit, welcoming newborns into the world with unique handmade gifts. Her hands, skilled in artistry, were also known for playing card games and solving puzzles, always bringing joy and laughter to those around her.
Donelda’s life was marked by resilience and humor. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Leesville, Louisiana, where she was active in her faith and community.
We find solace in the knowledge that Donelda’s spirit will forever inspire us. In her honor, we are committed to living our lives filled with the same joy and love she so richly bestowed upon us. Donelda will be buried in Harper Cemetery in Harper, Kansas.
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