L.B. Cowan

L. B. Cowan, age 86, of Austin passed away December 19, 2023, in his home in the presence of his devoted wife and soul mate, after a rapid progression of dementia. He will be remembered for his kind heart and sweet, quiet nature, even until the end.

He was born in Creedmoor, Texas on July 17, 1937 to Robert Pierson Cowan and Nettie Hamilton Cowan on a farm south of Austin. He was the last of nine children with three sisters and five brothers. We have wondered through the years if L. B stood for “last baby”, although he liked to tell everyone it stood for “lover boy”. He served in the Army Reserve for eight years. In 1956, he began a life long career as a union tradesman, owning his own glass company for years, until he retired in 2002.

L. B. married Shirley Ann Harris on April 12, 1972. They enjoyed fifty-two years together, always side-by-side in everything they did. They loved working in their church, travelling, hosting family events, and were always the best dancers on the dance floor. He became, not stepfather, but loving father to her three daughters, Kathy, Sharon and Patty. He enjoyed all their school and extra-curricular activities for years. He brought joy into their home and made their family complete.

He joined Northwest Baptist Church in 1972 and was baptized. He enjoyed serving his church in many ways by using his God-given gifts. He sang in the choir and was always available for any repair or construction project around the church. In 2008, Shirley and he joined Austin Baptist Church, where they were members of the Lamplighters Class for years until they were no longer physically able to attend.

L. B. was predeceased by his parents and eight siblings. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughters Kathy Petet (Joe); Patty Melchior (Mark); Sharon Melton (Joey); 9 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Glynn Lambert; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the loving and compassionate care given by Brookdale NW and Hospice Austin to L.B. in his final days.

Services will be Friday, December 29 at 10:00 a.m. at Cook Walden/Capital Parks Chapel in Pflugerville. Burial and reception will follow.

Pallbearers will be Phillip Allen, Donnie Cowan, Everett Melchior, Devon Melton, Joey Melton Jr., and Blake Miller.