Mary Alice Allen's Obituary
Mary Alice Allen, 83, passed away in her home, peacefully, surrounded by family on Saturday, July 11, 2026. She was born on November 25, 1942, the daughter of Rex O. and Lois H. (McFarland) Cochran.
On October 15, 1977, Mary married Dr. James C. Allen. She enjoyed travelling with Jim to many chiropractic meetings and seminars over the years. Mary became a certified x-ray technician and worked alongside her husband providing compassionate patient care. Along with patient care she also did the office’s payroll, bookkeeping, accounts payable, and helped with the marketing. Outside of work, she found peace and happiness in spending time working outside, planting annual flowers every spring, and nurturing her perennial beds. She especially enjoyed tending to her roses. Together Mary and Jim hosted countless family and work gatherings and celebrations including many birthday parties, graduation parties, wedding and baby showers, an outdoor wedding and reception, and numerous holiday celebrations. She especially treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren, who loved swimming in the pool, sleepovers, and making memories with their grandparents that they will carry with them always. Though she will be deeply missed, her generous hospitality, loving heart, and the joyful traditions created with her family and friends will remain a lasting part of her legacy.
Mary is survived by her children Robin Leighton (Mark) of Forsyth, IL, Brian Aubert (Andrea) of Decatur, IL, Pam Newberg (Don) of Mettawa, IL, Mike Allen (Judy) of Decatur, IL, brothers Jerry Fair (Ginger) of Mt. Zion, IL, Jim Cochran (Donna) of Decatur, IL, Steve Cochran (Chris) of Sierra Vista, AZ, sister Ann Meeker (Tom) of Muscatine, IA, brother-in-law Mike Irwin (Lorrie) of Decatur, IL, her aunt Barbara S. Brown (Jim) of Decatur, IL, 18 grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceding her in death was her beloved husband Jim Allen, her parents and grandparents, sister Dayle M. Irwin, stepson Gary Allen, several aunts and uncles.
Memorial contributions may be made to a dementia or Alzheimer’s research fund of your choosing, a favorite charity of your choosing, or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 am on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Mt. Zion Township Cemetery.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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