Dr. Overseer Ivey Lee Cowan

“Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God..." Acts 20:28

With heavy hearts yet profound gratitude, we announce the peaceful transition of Overseer Dr. Ivey Lee "Billy" Cowan, who entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Born on December 30, 1937, in Rowan County to the late James Lee Cowan and Edna Mae Caldwell Cowan, Overseer Cowan was a cherished husband, devoted father, revered pastor, supportive brother, beloved uncle, and steadfast friend.

From his early years, Overseer Cowan valued education deeply, graduating from R. A. Clement High School before pursuing higher learning. He earned his bachelor's degree from Catawba College and continued his theological education at Hood Theological Seminary. Driven by an unquenchable thirst for spiritual and academic excellence, he proudly earned his Doctorate Degree from Emmanuel Pentecostal Seminary in 1998 and his Doctorate Degree from International Theological Seminary in California in 1999.

Known affectionately as "The General," Overseer Cowan dedicated an incredible 66 years of his life to pastoral ministry. He pastored Emmanuel Pentecostal Churches in Woodleaf, NC, and Montgomery County, with unmatched dedication and unwavering faith. His meticulous nature, honed from over 40 years at Carter Chair upholstering furniture, was equally evident in his pastoral leadership. He maintained order, discipline, and profound reverence for God's Word within his congregations, guiding them with a firm yet loving hand.

Overseer Cowan's life was rich and full, deeply anchored in love for family and community. He cherished moments spent fishing, hunting, and traveling with his loved ones, joyfully competing in board games, Uno matches, and lively games of checkers. Always an enthusiastic sports fan, he faithfully cheered for the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers. Seafood meals shared with family brought special delight, illuminating gatherings with warmth and laughter.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Juanita P. Cowan; beloved daughter, Edna Louise Vaughters; siblings, Charles Cowan, Louise Turner, Jimmy Cowan, Lawrence Cowan, John Henry Cowan, Patricia Lewis (his dedicated first caregiver), James Edward Cowan, and Albert Cowan.

He leaves to cherish his rich legacy and treasured memories his devoted daughter, Bertha Renae Harrison Hunt; grandchildren, Talatha Vaughters, Richard Phillips (Angie), Robin Phillips, Michael Paul Vaughters, and Kimberly Vaughters; brother, Sammy Cowan (Shelia) of Spencer; sister, Ella England of Newton; special niece, Trajuanda Lewis Boyd (Jairus); sister-in-law, Karen Cowan; godsons, Bengey Hill, Pastor Eric Susong, and James Williams, Jr.; faithful caregivers, Deaconess Margaret Goodlett, Deaconess Joann Cowan, Deaconess Thelma Brown, and family members; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends.

Take your rest, thy good and faithful servant. Your profound legacy of faith, love, and dedication shall eternally live on, inspiring all whose lives you've touched.

Arrangements: Public Walk Thru Friday, May 16, 2025 from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM at the funeral home. Services will be Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Milford Hills United Methodist Church, Salisbury, with Visitation at 1:00 PM and Funeral at 2:00 PM. Interment following the service at Emmanuel Pentecostal Church Cemetery, Woodleaf. Diocese Elder Craig Smith, Officating and Bishop James Williams, Eulogist.

Noble and Kelsey Funeral Home, Inc. is assisting the Cowan family. Online condolences may be sent to nobleandkelsey.com.