Vernon Houchins, 82, Vincennes

Vernon E. Houchins, 82, of Vincennes, passed peacefully into the loving embrace of his Lord on November 17, 2025, at his home. Born on July 14, 1943, in Vincennes, Indiana, he was the son of Vernon E. Houchins I and Georgia (Lewis) Houchins Cochran. After losing his father in World War II, Vern was blessed to be lovingly raised by his stepfather, Raymond Cochran.
On August 29, 1965, Vern married the love of his life, Marilyn Osborne, at St. John’s United Church of Christ. Together they shared sixty years of devotion and raised two children, Mistene and Kent, who were the pride of Vern’s life.
Vern was a lifelong learner and an accomplished scholar. He graduated from Fritchton High School in 1961, Vincennes University in 1963, and Indiana State University in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree, later earning a Master of Science in 1968, both in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation.
A dedicated and loyal employee to Vincennes University, Vern devoted his entire professional career to the institution from August 1965 until his retirement in November 2004. He began his service as a faculty member in Recreation Studies, later served as Dean of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, and concluded his distinguished career as Dean of Continuing Studies. Vern’s leadership, compassion, and commitment to education touched countless lives.
Vern found great joy in the beauty of God’s creation. An avid golfer and lover of the outdoors, he cherished time spent canoeing, fishing, and teaching golf and recreation. Above all, his greatest blessings were his three grandchildren-Alex, Madeline, and Andrea. He delighted in supporting them at school functions and sporting events, always their proudest supporter.
Deeply devoted to his community, Vern felt called to give back in meaningful ways. He volunteered as a coach for the boys’ and girls’ golf teams at Rivet High School, contributed tirelessly to the Vincennes Elks Lodge through grant writing and event organization, and faithfully served on several boards, including the South Knox School Corporation, Knox County Parks Department, Life After Meth, and St. John’s United Church of Christ.
Vern was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bruce Cochran; his brother-in-law, Donald Osborne; and his sister-in-law, Edna Osborne.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; his children, Mistene Halter (Tony) and Kent Houchins (Christina); his cherished grandchildren, Alex Halter, Madeline Halter, and Andrea Houchins; his brother, Charles Cochran (June); his sister, Nannette Wagner (Andy); and his sister-in-law, Judy Osborne.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ, Vincennes Elks Lodge No. 291, or the Rivet High School Golf Program, continuing Vern’s legacy of service, community, and faith.
Funeral services for Vern will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Vincennes. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church. Online memories may be shared with Vern’s family and friends at www.goodwinsieversfh.com. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Vern and his family.