Donald M. Cowell

Donald M. Cowell, a man of great faith and service, passed away on March 22,2024, leaving behind a legacy that touched the lives of many. Born on November 7, 1938, in Ashland, Oregon, Donald's journey was marked by dedication and compassion towards his family and others.

Donald's life was a tapestry woven with diverse threads of service. He began his career as a Physical Education teacher before embarking on a noble path of serving the United States Air Force as a chaplain from 1964 to 1989. During his military tenure, he displayed exemplary courage and commitment, earning accolades that included the Service Medal with three bronze oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Gallantry Cross, and several other prestigious honors for his distinguished service.

Beyond his military commitments, Donald's spiritual calling led him to become the Associate Pastor at First Baptist Church in Benicia, California. His unwavering dedication saw him plant new churches across Oregon, Washington, and Arkansas for over fifteen years. As a member of Indian Springs Baptist Church, he continued to exemplify his deep-rooted faith through his actions and words.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Donald found joy in various pursuits. A seasoned traveler with a love for the outdoors, he adored camping and exploring nature's wonders. Alongside his wife Joann (Smith) Cowell, Donald served as the Assistant Director of the Good Sam Camping Club and shared countless adventures under the open sky. His artistic talents were expressed through designing and creating stained glass.  An avid golfer with an impressive track record of five holes-in-one, he found solace and challenge on the golf course. Additionally, he was known for his prowess on the racquetball court.

Donald's passing leaves a void in the hearts of many who loved him dearly. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Joann Cowell; daughter Debbie Ackerman and husband Bill; sons Jeffrey Cowell and wife Erin, Destry Cowell and wife Debbie, Rich Cowell and wife Terri; grandchildren: Bill Ackerman (Dustie), Kimber, Sydney Carter (Jackson), Sarah Castleberry (Evan), Jake Cowell, Darci Cowell, DeAnn Cowell, Denae Cowell, Emma Perry (Jim), Kaitlin Cowell, Megan Cowell; great-grandchild Norah Jane Carter; brother Curt Cowell; sister Janet Henderson and husband Bill; sister-in-law Carroll Cowell; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Lackey Cowell and Jewel Marie (Mason) Cowell; and brother, Roger Cowell.

In honoring Donald's memory and celebrating his remarkable life lived to the fullest extent with unwavering faith and dedication to service, a visitation will be held at Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant on Thursday, March 28th at 9:30 AM followed by a Funeral Service at 10:30 AM. The final act of laying him to rest will take place at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock at 1:00 PM.

Memorials may be made to Charlie Davidson Life Group at Indian Springs Baptist Church, 23581 I-30, Bryant, AR 72022.

Donald M. Cowell's story is one of resilience in adversity and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community—a life that will continue to inspire generations to come. May his soul find eternal peace as we carry forward his memory with love and reverence.