Ella Mae Cowan

(1934-2012) ASHEVILLE—Ella Mae Stevens Cowan, 78, of Bear Creek Rd., Asheville, died Monday, June 18, 2012, at Mission Hospital. Ella was a Buncombe County native and lifelong resident born to the late Richard and Fannie Roberts Stevens. Also preceding her in death were brothers, Frank C., Robert, Henry, Merritt, George, and sisters, Virginia, Alice, and Wylma. She was employed for many years as an Insurance Agent with Fisher-Jones and with other agencies, then in later years worked in retail sales. She graduated from West Buncombe High and Blanton's Business College. She was a Christian of Baptist denomination. A member of the Order of the Eastern Star, she was a talented seamstress and cook; she enjoyed travel and fishing with her husband, her herb garden, yard, household plants, flowers, and dining out. She especially enjoyed and loved her family, neighbors, friends, and her dog Sissie. Ella is survived by her husband, Alva H. Cowan, Jr., a Freemason, member and Past Master of the Nichols-West Asheville Masonic Lodge; sisters, Nell Stevens Bell of Asheville, Sue Capps and husband Gene of Winter Park FL, Rosalie Gilliam of San Mateo FL; brothers, Tom Stevens and wife Virginia of Asheville, Joe Stevens and wife Sarah Ann of Leicester, and many nieces and nephews. Officiating at a green graveside service will be Rev. Ricky Wolfe and Rev. Bobby Smith on Sunday, June 24, at 2:30 p.m. at Leicester Episcopal Churchyard on Alexander Rd. in Leicester. From Patton Ave. turn onto New Leicester Hwy., approximately 7 to 8 miles to the traffic light in Leicester; turn right onto Alexander Rd.; the cemetery is a short distance on the right. In lieu of flowers, a donation is requested for Leicester Episcopal Churchyard, c/o Ivagene Parham, 2698 New Leicester Hwy., Leicester, NC 28748. West Funeral Home, Weaverville, is assisting the family. For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mrs. Cowan's obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.