Obituaries
George Wilbert Cowan, Jr. was born November 8, 1948 to Merle Cowan and George Wilbert Cowan, Sr. in Memphis, TN and was affectionately known as “Butch”. Following a long illness, he passed away at his home on Saturday, March 3, 2018.
He was a graduate of Hamilton High School Class of 1966 and was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving in the Vietnam War from 1969-1970. After earning numerous medals, including the Vietnam Service Medal and the Bronze Star Medal for Heroism, he was honorably discharged in 1970.
George worked as a locomotive engineer for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. He proudly provided 35 years of diligent service before retiring.
George leaves his wife, Rose Cowan, and children, Sean Cowan, Sr., Angel Price, Shonique Cowan, and Samantha Cowan. One son, Terrence Andre Cowan and one grandson, Darrius Pointer, preceded him in death.
He also leaves to cherish his memory a loving mother, Merle Cowan; his father, George W. Cowan, Sr. (Toddy); ten siblings, Duane Cowan (Marjorie), Joyce Ann Higgins, Rosalyn Radcliff (Andre), Byron Cowan, Carlton Cowan, Sr. (Azalea), Ronnie Cowan, Edrick Cowan (Allicia), Rodney Cowan (Donna), Verlie Cowan, and Candi Benson (Andre); five grandchildren, Asia Price, Dasha, Jada, and Leah Pointer, and Sean Cowan, Jr. ; brother and sister in-laws, John White, Sally Watkins, Helen Daniels, Kenny Watkins, Clinton Watkins, and Petry Watkins; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones.
George’s life was centered around fishing, a longtime passion he often shared with his wife, brother Byron, and many fishing buddies. As a member of the Midsouth PanFishers Club, he spent many days on the lake. He especially enjoyed teaching children to fish, giving so many of them an appreciation and love for the sport. George was also an avid chess player, and was very proud of his military service, as well as his longtime railroad career.
Until his health declined, he was a faithful member of Ross Road Church of Christ. George was a strong man of faith and personal convictions. He lived a full life committed to the well-being of his family and friends. He was known as a man that opened his home and his heart to so many people over the years.
While he was a trailblazer in the workplace and a war hero, his most profound legacy will be that he loved God, that he loved and cared for his family, and that he helped everyone that he could.
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My soul finds rest in God alone, my salvation comes from Him, He alone is my rock and my salvation. - Psalms 62: 1-2
Serenity Funeral Home (901) 379-0861
Previous Events
Visitation
8
Mar
1638 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
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9
Mar
3880 Coleman Avenue
Memphis, TN 38122
Cemetery Details
Location
4000 Forest Hill Irene Road
Memphis, TN 38125