He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Alvin Cowan and Matty Melvina Barnett. He is survived by his sons, Danny and Tommy; one daughter, Tomi Kay; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. JR was born in Herrin, IL in 1918 and shortly thereafter, moved to San Antonio.
He retired from the railroad in 1983.
JR will be deeply missed by his family and friends