Kenneth L. Cowan

CARBONDALE - Kenneth Layton Cowan, 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 14, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

Kenneth was born on August 8, 1938 to Curtis and Essie (Chitwood) Cowan in Alton. He married Glenda Lavon Stewart on October 17, 1959 in Carbondale.

Kenneth is survived by his, daughter Kimra L. Brand and husband James of Herrin, grandchildren, Jared Glen Warren and wife Sue Ellen of Herrin, Jacob Wayne Warren and wife Jacqueline of Herrin, Kendra Lee Jones and husband David of Thompsonville, Ross William Heern and wife Bethany of Mulkeytown; great-grandchildren, Brayden Michael Warren, Field Carson Warren, Cole Wayne Warren, Lainey Jo Warren, Kenzie Lee Jones, Wyatt Allen Jones, Violet Mae Jones, Penelope Grace Heern, Cade Ira Heern and Logan William Heern; and son-in-law, Kenny Heern of Thompsonville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Glenda Lavon Cowan; daughter, Deborah Sue Heern; and son, Kenneth Wayne Cowan.

Kenneth was a dedicated Chief Water/Sewage Plant Operator for the City of Carbondale, a role he cherished during his many years of service until retirement, including construction work. Beyond his professional achievements, Kenneth embraced his passions with equal fervor. An avid gardener, he poured his heart into cultivating a vibrant array of produce, proudly tending to his yard and home that was a sight to behold. Kenneth also enjoyed hunting and fishing, finding joy and solace in the great outdoors, including feeding his beloved local birds and squirrels.

He was a passionate family man, and often could be found assisting his wife, Glenda, with the Shoebox Ministry and many other church functions. He was a member of Lone Oak Baptist Church in Energy. 

His passing leaves a profound emptiness, but those who had the pleasure of knowing him will remember Kenneth not just with sadness, but with gratitude for the many moments they shared. His kindness, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched.

Funeral services for Kenneth will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Lone Oak Baptist Church in Energy with Pastor Ralph Brandon officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Makanda. Visitation will be held on Wednesday at the church from 9:00am until 11:00am.

Memorials in Kenneth’s name may be made to Kimra Brand to assist with funeral expenses and will be accepted at the funeral.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Kenneth, visit www.meredithfh.com