Samuel T. Cowling

It is with a deep sense of loss and profound respect that we commemorate the life of Dr. Samuel T. Cowling III, affectionately known as Sam to his friends and family, who passed away on September 14, 2025, in Painesville. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 29th, 1937, to the late Samuel and Adelle Cowling, he spent his formative years in Chicago, Illinois.

Sam was a veteran and served in the U.S. Navy. His academic pursuit led him to the hallowed halls of Georgetown University for his undergraduate work, then to Brown University for his Masters and finally to Michigan State University where he earned his Doctorate in Medieval Literature, a testament to his passion for the written word. This love for language paved the way for a distinguished career as a Professor of English at Lake Erie College where he taught courses in Literature and Composition. He retired from Lake Erie College in 2002 and was awarded the honor of Professor Emeritus. A quote from one of his students is, "He will be missed by more than he could have imagined".

Beyond his academic achievements, Sam's heart cherished his beloved wife, Susan Vanderwal Cowling; his children Michael (Sara) Cowling, Dorigen Cowling, his stepson Gavin Malcolm, and his grandchildren Natalie, Andrew, and Griffin Cowling, as well as Marissa and Dalia Malcolm. His parents Adelle and Sam, his daughter Jessica, and his brother Bill Cowling preceded him in death.

Sam's interests were as rich and varied as his personality. He had an insatiable appetite for reading, which fed his ever-curious mind. An ardent nature lover, he found joy and peace in watching and feeding the birds, an activity that allowed him to revel in the simplicity and beauty of life. Sam equally enjoyed spending time on the beach and being by the water.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11:00am at St. James Episcopal Church, 131 N. State St., Painesville, Ohio 44077 with a time of continued fellowship following. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the St. James Foundation or the St. James Lunch Program are suggested.