Alvin Cowan

Alvin Dale Cowan, age 67, of St. Joe, Arkansas passed away at home on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

He was born October 2, 1958 in San Luis Obispo, California. He was preceded in death by his mom, Leland Cowan, several brothers, and a sister.

Alvin married Joyce Martin on August 29,1980 at the Pine Bluff Community Church in St. Joe, Arkansas. He was of the Pentecostal faith. He retired from J&H Church Furniture in Pindall, Arkansas.

Three things Alvin loved in life and could talk to anyone on these subjects: woodworking, collecting knives, and his 7 grandchildren. He thought his grandchildren could do no wrong in his eyes. His grandchildren knew how to soften his heart and could get away with almost anything. He started a tradition with each grandchild, that every year, he would get them a Case birthday knife. Hardly a day went by without Papa telling them Papa loves you. He was also a big cut up. He loved to tease and aggravate just about everyone.

He will be remembered for his unique and elaborate stories. He loved telling stories that left you wondering- did that really happen?

Alvin is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joyce Cowan; two daughters, Angie Smith (Vance) and Susan Marshall (Jamie); his 7 grandchildren that loved their Papa; Chloe, Schyler, Ann, Mason, Kolten, Kinsley, and Jett; and two children that he felt as close to as if they were his own, Andy and Brittany Gonzales. He is also survived by a host of other family and friends and his dog Pete.

Alvin played many roles in this life and will be greatly missed. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will live forever in the hearts of his family.

Visitation will be from 6 PM to 8 PM, Thursday, November 13 at Coffman Funeral Home in Harrison. Funeral Service will be at 1:00 PM, Friday, November 14 (2025) at Coffman Funeral Home in Harrison with Brother Leo Dye and Brother Tim Hampton officiating. Burial will follow in Love Cemetery in St. Joe, Arkansas.

Pallbearers are Vance Smith, Schyler Smith, Jamie Marshall, Mason Marshall, Kolten Marshall, Andy Gonzales, Gary Wienert, and Shawn Fletcher.

Honorary pallbearers are his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com.

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