MARY COWEN

Born on October 3, 1922, in Bellaire, Ohio, a daughter of the late Martin Wilbur and Mary Olive Coleman Giffin.

Mary graduated from Bellaire High School in 1940 and went on to attend Ohio State University, where she pursued her studies with vigor and passion. Her commitment to education led her to a fulfilling career as a Kindergarten Teacher at Bellaire Local School.

Alongside her professional endeavors, Mary Louise played an integral role in the operation of the family farm with her beloved husband.

In addition to her professional and familial duties, Mary was deeply engaged in her community. She served as a 4H Leader of the Rock Hill Rangers and was an active participant in the Grange. Her service extended into her spiritual life, where she was a devoted member of the Rock Hill Presbyterian Church. Mary Louise held leadership roles as an Elder, Former Co-Moderator for the Upper Ohio Valley Presbyterian Women and Moderator for the Presbyterian Women of Rock Hill. As a member of the Rock Hill Quilters, she exemplified steadfast faith and creativity.

Her community involvement was extensive and spanned numerous organizations, including the Presbyterian Women’s Association, Bellaire PTA, Child Guidance, Wheeling Women’s Club, WCTU, Brooks Bird Club, and the Farm Bureau. She also contributed significantly to the Bellaire Hospital Auxiliary, where she proudly served as a former president.

A WWII bride, Mary stood by her husband’s side as they were stationed in California, embodying the resilience and courage characteristic of those who lived through the Great Depression and contributed tirelessly during times of global conflict.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Henry Cowen on April 17, 2008, an infant sister, Catherine Giffin, sister Martha Booth, brothers Wendell and John Giffin.

Survivors include her children: Catherine Louise (Darrell) Buffenbarger, Robert David (Lori) Cowen, John William (Rita) Cowen, James Stephen Cowen, Patricia Ann (Edwin) Long, Bruce Howard (Gwen) Cowen, and Nancy Ellen (Bart) DeStefano as well as twenty grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Family and friends will be received at the Bauknecht-Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory 441 37th Street Bellaire Ohio on Thursday March 27, 2025 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. Additional visitation will be on Friday March 28, 2025 at Rock Hill Presbyterian Church, Bellaire from 10:30am until 11:30am. Funeral Services will be held at 12 with Rev. David Demarest as celebrant. Interment to immediately follow in Rock Hill Cemetery, Bellaire Ohio.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rock Hill Presbyterian Church by going to TMCFunding.com

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