James J. Cowan Sr. Obituary (1951 - 2025)

James (Jim) Cowan, 74, of Horseheads, NY, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025. Jim was born on May 17th to Samuel and Sarah Cowan. He often reminisced about his days in the high school band, The Inn Keepers, where he played alongside his lifelong best friend, Mike Barton. His fondest memories included helping on the family farm and cheering on his children at the bowling alley. Jim’s heart belonged to his family—his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. Whether in the stands or from home, he was always their biggest supporter at sporting events, musical performances, and life’s milestones. Professionally, Jim was a proud truck driver who found his calling at UPS, where he hauled doubles across the state of New York. After taking an early retirement, he embraced a slower pace of life enjoying time on or near the water, taking cruises with friends and family, crafting with wood, and cherishing quiet moments with his wife. On May 6, 2006, Jim married Ginger Austin, and with that union, two families became one. Their bond was a testament to love, partnership, and the joy of a shared life. Jim is survived by the love of his life, Ginger; mother, Sarah Cowan; brother, Michael (Joanne) Cowan; and his sister, Sharon (Ronald) Grose. He leaves behind his children: James (Christina) Cowan Jr., Melissa Hess, Tracey (Shawn) Whitney, Jamie Gerould (Jeremy), Corey (Caryn) Cowan, Curtis (Elise) Cowan and Amanda Ott (Mike). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Kaitlin (Jimmy) Steck, Lindsay Whitney (Shaun), Hannah (Joseph) Hart, Ryan, Breonna, Nicholas, Camden, Lillian, Carissa, Caleb, Samuel, Cayleigh, Daniel, Travis, Sierra, Patrick and Colson; and great-grandchildren: Austin, Emma, Amelia, Tripp, Alexander and Audrey. Jim was predeceased by his father, Samuel Cowan. Jim’s life was one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed and remembered forever. Jim’s message to family and friends: To those I love… …and those who love me. When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do. You musn’t tie yourself to me with your tears. Be thankful for our beautiful years. I gave you my love. You can only guess. How much you gave to me in happiness. I thank you for the love each has shown. And now it’s time I traveled alone. To grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must. Then let our grief be comforted by trust. It’s only for a time that we must part. To bless the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away, for life goes on. So if you need me, call me and I will come. Though you can’t see me or touch me, I’ll be near. All my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way alone. I’ll greet you with a smile and say… Welcome Home!