Jean Cowen

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Dortha Jean Cowen went to be with the Lord on September 13, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Jean had a ready smile, a hug, and a manner that made you know you were important to her, that will be missed by all.

Dortha Jean McGregor was born on March 3, 1931, in Dallas, TX to Dortha (Perdue) and John McGregor. She grew up in the Denton County TX area and was later joined by her two brothers, Walter (Bud) and William. When she was in 7th grade, their family moved to Baxter Springs, KS.

While in Baxter, Jean enjoyed many activities in school, such as band, choir, clubs, football queen, and her favorite, cheerleading. In February of 1950, she married Jack Turner and together they had four children, Karen, Jack Jr, John, and Jody. They made their home in Treece, KS, until moving to Riverton, KS in 1963. The family enjoyed fishing, camping, picnics, swimming at 5-Mile, and took several trips in a Volkswagen bus to California to visit family. Jean enjoyed being the den mother, home-room mother, and proud little league supporter. She was also active in the church, teaching Sunday school, working in the nursery, and singing in the choir. Jean and Jack later divorced.

In 1967, she went to work as a bank teller at Baxter State Bank, and later worked as an account manager at Leggett & Platt in Carthage, MO. Jean enjoyed dressing up, wearing jewelry and accessories, with hair and nails always done. Anything sparkly with bold colors became her signature style. She retired in 1993.

In 1980, Jean married Robert "Bob" Cowen. They made their home in the Joplin area. They were faithful members of the Frisco Church and helped in many areas of work there. After retirement, they enjoyed spending time with family and long-time friends from church, going antiquing, thrift store shopping, and traveling. They had several campers and spent many winters in Texas, Arizona, and Florida. A cruise to Alaska, followed by a train ride through Denali National Park was one of the biggest and favorite adventures.

There was always a Thanksgiving feast at her house, where everyone looked forward to homemade noodles and hot rolls. For 30 years, Jean also hosted the Christmas Eve party for her growing family. She was famous for cooking a large variety of snacks and goodies for the evening. The grandkids always looked forward to her UNIQUE gift selections, which gave everyone a laugh. But one of the best was finishing the night with a good ‘ol wrapping paper tube sword fight. Jean was the ultimate hostess. Visitors rarely left without an offer of a drink or snack for the road, or leftovers from dinner, as they walked out the door. Family was the most important thing in Jean’s life. She treasured time spent together with her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. Making a trip to a ball game, a concert, or any school event was always fun for her.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, sons, Jack Turner, Jr and John Turner, and husband Bob Cowen.

She is survived by children, Karen Turner and Jody (Jacque) Turner. Grandkids, Kristin (Jimmy) Horner, Nikki Martin, JR Turner, Caleb Turner, Josh Turner, Chasity Wilson, Chelsea (Geoff) Haynes, Jessica (Derek) Johnson, Joseph Turner, Cheyenne (Izaiah) Wooten, Tamara Cunningham, and Dustin (Me-Ly) Cunningham. Great grandkids: Kaylee, Kenzie, Jacob, Carly, Kaleila, Gavin, Addison, Evan, Zane, Rylee, Wyatt, Karson, Lyla, Myah, Bryce, Chloe, Kinley, Kaydence, Jackson, Kohen, Maevis, Oakley, Keenyn, Zoey, Abel, Rebekah, Jaycee, and Ryder.

Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Jean to Frisco Church in care of the mortuary.

Funeral service has been scheduled for 11:00 am Friday, September 20 at Mason-Woodard Chapel, 3701 E. 7th St, Joplin, MO. Family will receive friends and visitors at 10:00 am Friday, prior to the service.

Arrangements under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory - Joplin, MO.