- First elected as a Tamworth Councillor in 1997, Marion Couchman also served as Mayor of Tamworth in 2003/04 and was re-elected as a councillor in May 2024.
- Her leadership and commitment were felt across numerous committees and initiatives, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who serve the community.
A Tamworth Borough Council councillor and previous mayor, who devoted almost 30 years to serving her community has been honoured by fellow councillors and officers.
Councillor Marion Couchman, who passed away in December 2025, was a well-known and much respected member of the community who served with distinction in a political career spanning nearly three decades, and her tireless dedication to the town and its people leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service and commitment.
Marion was first elected to Tamworth Borough Council in 1997 and has served numerous terms in office with distinction for nearly 30 years. Her political journey was one defined by unwavering dedication to improving the lives of residents, and her leadership was an integral driving force behind numerous initiatives and committees that shaped the future of Tamworth.
Councillor Couchman served as Mayor of Tamworth in 2003/04, a role she carried out with grace and a deep sense of civic pride. Her contribution during this time was significant, forging strong links between the council and local organisations, and working tirelessly to represent the borough.
Marion was most recently re-elected as a councillor in May 2024. Her work on the infrastructure, safety and growth scrutiny committee and the prosperity, place and environment overview and scrutiny committee, highlighted her leadership in shaping policies that impacted everything from community safety to environmental sustainability.
Councillor Carol Dean, Leader of Tamworth Borough Council, said: "I was devastated to hear about the passing of my great friend, Councillor Marion Couchman.
"Marion was a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about our community. Her compassion, commitment and dedication to getting things done and changing things for the better touched many lives.
“Her passing marks the end of an era of dedicated public service, but her contributions to Tamworth will never be forgotten. She will be fondly remembered as a councillor who always put her community first and who worked tirelessly to ensure Tamworth remained a vibrant and thriving place to live.
“She was a great ambassador for Tamworth, and she will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. I will miss her friendship and her wise counsel, which is irreplaceable.
“On behalf of the council, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of working alongside her. Marion’s presence in the council chamber and in the community will be sorely missed.”
Councillor Stephen Doyle, representative from Tamworth Conservatives said: “Myself and my colleagues had a great deal of respect for Marion, despite our political differences we shared a love of family and Tamworth.
“I will miss Marion greatly. Marion was a friend as well as a colleague and our families have grown up together.
“She will be truly missed by her friends and family."
Stephen Gabriel, Chief Executive of Tamworth Borough Council, also said:
"Councillor Marion Couchman’s dedication to public service and her genuine care for the people of Tamworth was evident in everything she did. She will be remembered fondly by councillors, officers and residents alike. She leaves a significant legacy of service to our borough and the many projects she championed.”
Councillor Tina Clements, representative from Tamworth Independent Councillors Group said: "With heavy hearts, we remember Marion Couchman — a dedicated public servant and a trusted voice for our community. Marion believed deeply in the power of local government as a partnership with the people it serves. As a councillor, she led with integrity, listened with patience, and acted with compassion.
“Her fairness, courage, and commitment to her constituents were unmatched. She didn’t just hear concerns, she took them to heart, always striving to make Tamworth a better place. Beyond her work, Marion’s kindness, sense of humour, and steady presence made her a true friend to all.
“We mourn her loss, but we also celebrate the profound impact she had on our town and our lives. Tamworth is better because of Marion, and we are richer for having known her."
Councillor Ben Price, Leader of Tamworth Independent Futures Group said: “I had the pleasure of being elected to the council twice and serving alongside Marion. On both occasions Marion exemplified what it means to serve the public.
“Marion was a kind and caring person and somebody who I had the upmost respect for; I will miss her advice and support on committees. My condolences go out to Marion’s family and friends; we have lost a great councillor and a wonderful friend.”
Councillor Marion Couchman’s funeral will take place on Friday 16 January at 10am at St John the Baptist Church, Tamworth.
In honour of Councillor Marion Couchman, the Union flag will be flown at half mast at Marmion House on Friday 16 January.