Mr. Joe Harold Cowans was born on September 22, 1946, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. He was the son of the late Essie Mae and Johnnie Lee Cowans. He departed this life on Friday, November 5, 2021.
Joe was educated in the public school system of Okmulgee County, Oklahoma. He graduated from Okmulgee High School, Class of 1964. He enlisted in the United States Army in December of 1966, where he served in Germany and Korea. Joe was stationed in Columbia, South Carolina at Fort Jackson. During this time, he married Lola Cowans and from this union there was one daughter, Monique. After exiting the military, Joe made Columbia, SC, his home. He retired after many dedicated years working for the Veterans Administration as an Adjudicator.
Joe rededicated his life to Christ in 1986. He attended The Progressive Church of our Lord Jesus Christ, where for many years he served as an usher.
As one of his hobbies, Joe enjoyed breeding and training German Shepherds. He enjoyed taking family road trips while listening to his 8-track cassette player. Joe was also an avid billiards player and baseball fan.
In 1981, Joe opened a barbeque restaurant named Cowans’ Ranch on Millwood Avenue in Columbia, SC. There, he became well known for his delicious hash and rice, ribs, barbeque bologna sandwiches, and many other menu items.
He was preceded in death by: his parents, Johnnie Lee and Essie Mae Cowans; and brother, Bobby Cowans.
Mr. Joe Harold Cowans leaves to mourn his passing: his daughter, Monique Cowans-Grant, of Irmo, SC; a son-in-law, Shawn P. Grant; grandsons, Sean Shuler, Rasheed Rucker, Sasheen Latimer, and Khaleem Drisdom; granddaughters, Shawnta Grant and Shaw Howell; 9 great-grandchildren; many other loving relatives and friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.
To Monique and Family,
We are saddened to learn of your Father’s passing. I am proud of how you in particular, husband and sons cared for your Father. Eric, Deric and I extend our deepest sympathy.