Margaret "Skip" Cowells

In Loving Memory of Margaret "Skip" Cowells

November 19, 1953 – November 6, 2025

Margaret "Skip" Mary Cowells, beloved mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, in Mount Clemens, Michigan, at the age of 71.

Margaret was born on November 19, 1953, in Flint, Michigan, to Wesley Edward Hicks and Loretta Magdalene (née Lucius) Hicks. She was lovingly raised by her mother, Loretta, and stepfather, William Frank Sutton, alongside her six siblings. Margaret shared a close bond with both her mother and stepfather, and their love and guidance shaped the compassionate, faith-filled woman she became.

She spent her early years in the Flint area before moving to the metro Detroit region in the early 1960s, where she made her home and built a life rich in faith, creativity, and connection.

Margaret attended Carl Brablec High School (now Roseville High School) before continuing her education at the Michigan College of Beauty. In 1981, she became a licensed cosmetologist and esthetician-a profession she adored. Her work was far more than a job; it was a calling. She found joy in helping others feel beautiful and confident, and she cherished the many friendships she made through her decades in the beauty industry. Even after most would have retired, Margaret continued doing hair from her own home, blending her artistry with the warmth of personal connection.

From a young age, Margaret's deep faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted Christian of nondenominational faith, she found strength and peace in her relationship with Jesus. No matter the challenges she faced, she leaned on her faith, trusting that everything would work out in His hands.

A woman of endless creativity and energy, Margaret's passions extended far beyond her career. She loved to read, sew, craft, paint, garden, landscape, decorate, and remodel homes-her enthusiasm for life's creative pursuits was boundless. One of her greatest joys was dancing, especially worship dance. Her devotion shone through as she designed costumes, created tabrets, banners, and flags, and helped choreograph beautiful performances that glorified God. She played the shofar and tambourine, embracing every opportunity to express her faith through art and movement.

Margaret's life was marked by her generosity, spirit, and unwavering belief. She was a woman of grace and creativity who poured love into everything she touched and everyone she met.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her children, Gabe (Jessica) Shotts, and Ben (Joy) Shotts; grandchild, John Calvin; siblings, Janice (Les) Acha, Ann (Keith Hughes) Elkins; and Shelia (the late Neal) Stewart; adored dog, Mickey; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Wesley E. Hicks, and Loretta M. (William) Sutton; siblings Clifford Hicks, Carol A. Hicks, and Michael Hicks; and her husband Paul J. Cowells.

Visitation will take place Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm with a Funeral Service at 7:00pm at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 25800 Harper, St. Clair Shores, MI.

Donations in Margaret's honor can be made to Turning Point, PO Box 1123, Mt. Clemens, MI 48046. Donate