James "Jimmy" Louis Cowan Jr.

James Louis “Jimmy” Cowan Jr., 72, passed away, Tuesday, June 21, 2022, peacefully in his sleep at his home.

Mr. Cowan was born on October 31, 1949, in Martin County to Louis and Marie Cowan. At a very young age he became a resident of Farmville, N.C., where he chose to plant his roots and start a family. After graduating from Atlantic Christian College with a bachelor’s degree in Accountancy and History, Jimmy became a local accountant and eventually bought Cecil Lilley’s business. Some years later, he was also appointed as the magistrate of Pitt County while continuing his accounting business. As if this did not keep him busy enough, he even obtained his real estate and broker’s licenses. After serving for 34.5 years, Mr. Cowan retired from being the senior chief magistrate of Pitt County. Upon retirement, Jimmy’s wife, Angie, wrote Senator Don Davis about her husband and his contributions. After being nominated by Governor Pat McCrory, Jimmy was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award for his dedication to service in Pitt County.

His strong love for the country started as a young boy when he would spend his summers with his Cowan grandparents. He always had a pony, horse, or mule and would have his bags packed on the last day of school to go spend the summer with them on the farm. If you knew Jimmy, you would know that he always had a joke to tell, historical tidbits to share, and many stories about his Civil War reenactment adventures. These reenactments led him to make lifelong friends all over the country through the 1st North Carolina Calvary Company I. After many years of living in town, Jimmy finally made his way back to the country where he enjoyed his horses and chickens. He could often be found riding on his golf cart with his dog, Gracie, or one of his granddaughters, feeding the animals and watching his beloved birds. As a member of both the First Christian Church and the Farmville Masonic Lodge, Mr. Cowan was a faithful servant of the Lord. He never knew a stranger and was always quick to welcome anyone with a kind and open heart. Above all, he had an unfailing love for his family and enjoyed spending his free time making memories with them.

Preceding him in death are his father, James Louis Cowan and son, James Louis “Jamie” Cowan III.

He is survived by his wife, Angie Cowan of the home; his children Caroline (Bob) Davenport, Jonathon Cowan (partner Rachel Kennedy & son Cristian), Ellen (Michael) Davis, and Jameson (Macy) Cowan; his granddaughters Jamie (Hunter) Jernigan, Becca Davenport (partner Easton Ripper), Hannah Cowan, and Julia Davis; his mother Essie Marie Cowan; his brother Gary (Vickie) Cowan; his niece Simone (Jeffrey) Barnes; his great nephews Bryson and Liam Barnes; and his beloved friends, Demetrius & Mamu Willoughby.

A celebration of life will be conducted Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 2 p.m. at Farmville Presbyterian Church by Rev. Rocky Stone with a visitation to follow.

Online condolences may be made at www.farmvillefh.com.

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