Billy Rogers Cowan, son of the late Ollie Wesley Cowan and Percy Lee Hogue Cowan, was born October 26, 1946 in Wynne, Arkansas. He departed this life July 25, 2026 in Melbourne, Arkansas at the age of 79. Billy was a graduate of Forrest City High School. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After completing his obligation to the Army, he went to work for Sanyo Manufacturing, retiring after many years of employment. He was united in marriage to Phyllis Kay Thompson December 25, 1969 in Colt, Arkansas and together they raised two sons. After moving to Melbourne, Billy and Phyllis owned and operated Bread of Life Bookstore for over twenty years. He spent his life as a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, provider and friend. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church.

Billy is survived by two sons: Tony Cowan and wife Shea and Jeff Cowan and wife Kelly all of Melbourne; one brother: Allen Cowan and wife Pauline of Jonesboro; one sister: Laverne Mauffrey of Missouri; seven grandchildren: Caleb Cowan, Taylor Cowan, Amber Gleghorn (Michael), Katelyn Goodman (Heath), Ashton Rogers (David), Alexis Cowan, Brylee Dillard; nine great grandchildren: Kaison Goodman, Holland Goodman, Kohen Goodman, Kamp Goodman, Honey Goodman, Paislee Cowan, Avalynn Rogers, Case Rogers and Merritt Gleghorn; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and many good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 52 years: Phyllis Cowan; three brothers: Tom Cowan, Harvey Cowan and Ernie Cowan and two sisters: Virginia Wilkins and Lucille Rushing.

Visitation and funeral service will be Wednesday July 29, 2026 at Eddie’s Family Funeral Home in Melbourne. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. Funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. with John Higgins and Rick Burke officiating. Burial will follow at Melbourne Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Caleb Cowan, Taylor Cowan, Phil West, Ray Thompson, Heath Goodman, David Rogers, Michael Gleghorn, Garland Watlington

Honorary Pallbearers: Terry Rushing, Erik Cowan, Mark Cowan.