Phyllis Thomas Cowan

Phyllis T. Cowan died Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Marsh’s Edge, St. Simons Island, Georgia. Inurnment will take place on Monday, July 8, 2024 at the Rock Island National Cemetery. The family asks those attending should arrive at Weerts Funeral Home no later than 9:15 a.m. Online condolences may be expressed at www.weertsfh.com.

Phyllis was born July 17, 1930, in Chicago, to Julius and Ruth Thomas. She earned her degree in Home Economics from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1952. It was at IIT that she met George Cowan. They married on February 15, 1953 in Evanston, Illinois. Phyllis joined George as he served in the U.S. Army after the Korean War. They lived at Camp Fuchinobe for 18 months, and Phyllis immersed herself in the Japanese culture and customs, which she later passed on to her daughters and grandchildren.

Phyllis was a devoted mother to Janet and Carol. She raised her family in Parsippany, New Jersey through 1973 and then in Bettendorf, Iowa. She put her family first and was always available for conversation and would listen before giving her wise advice.

Phyllis, along with George, had opportunities to travel all over the world during their marriage. She collected artifacts from each trip and there was always a story to tell and photo albums meticulously labeled for friends and family to enjoy. She was a very talented crafter. Her beaded flower arrangements were cherished gifts received by family and friends. Phyllis had a diverse embroidery repertoire; cross stitch, crewelwork, needlepoint were all beautifully displayed throughout the family home. She was also a wonderful cook. Family gatherings were full of delectable comfort food. Phyllis always made sure to have each of her daughter’s favorite meal available when they returned home from college for weekend visits.

Phyllis was blessed to live in the same town as 2 of her grandchildren from their birth until they left for college. Often, along with George, they would have “adventure”, taking the grandchildren to local cultural and nature locales.

Phyllis was preceded in death by George, her husband of 63 years. In 2019, she joined her daughter Carol and son-in-law in St. Simons Island, Georgia, moving to Marsh’s Edge. The staff at Marsh’s Edge was like an extended family; she appreciated the exemplary care she received during her time in Assisted Living, continuing into the Skilled Nursing wing. Phyllis especially enjoyed visits by her granddog, Brody.

Left to honor Phyllis’ memory include daughters Janet (David) Tidwell of Sugar Hill, GA and Carol (William) Brockway of St. Simons Island; grandchildren Kristin Epping of Milwaukee Wisconsin, Hilary Epping of Davenport, Iowa and Michael Tidwell of Georgia and one great grandchild.