Wesley T Cowan

Dr. Wesley T. Cowan passed away peacefully on June 9th, 2024 at his home in Baneberry, TN, surrounded by his wife, granddaughter, and beloved friends.

Born on March 30th, 1954 to Peter H. Cowan III and Peggy Smith Cowan. Wesley grew up in White Pine, TN and graduated from West High School, class of 1972. He pursued a doctorate in pharmacy at Mercer University in Atlanta, GA before returning to White Pine to become the third-generation pharmacist at Sanitary Drug Store. He married Vicki Maurer Cowan on Oct 25th, 1997 and they remained together as best friends who loved and cared for each other for more than 27yrs of marriage. Wesley was a pillar in our small community, always greeting every customer with a smile, ready to lend a helping hand and he continued his service at the pharmacy until his retirement in 2016. 

Wesley was deeply involved in the First Methodist Church, White Pine, serving on various committees, singing in the choir, and occasionally playing the drums for special programs. He was also a dedicated member and past president of the White Pine Cemetery Association, served on the Jefferson County Board of Health, elected to the Jefferson County Board of Directors, and was a community leader who led with integrity. His passion for music extended to playing the drums in two bands, Reflections and Zero Station, with the latter being composed of fellow doctors. He enjoyed golfing, boating with his family, and was renowned for his grilling skills, especially his steaks. Wesley loved to tell stories and jokes, mainly the same ones, and with each telling he would laugh like it was the very first time he was reciting them. It didn’t matter how many times you’d heard his jokes, it was impossible not to laugh along with him because his laugh was contagious and his eyes sparkled with joy and mischief. That was Wesley T. Cowan.

Preceded in death by his parents, Peter H. Cowan III and Peggy Smith Cowan, and his daughter, Emily Kauffman Cowan. 

Wesley is survived by his loving wife, Vicki Maurer Cowan, daughter Elizabeth (Chris) Cowan Morris; grandchildren Cole, Adelyn, and Emmett; son Ben (Whitney) Ehlers; grandchildren Ginia, Alexis, and Jaxon; daughter Sarah (Dan) Turner; grandchildren Blakely, Braelyn, Gage, and Wyatt; and grandchildren Abel and Wesley (Emily’s children). He is also survived by his sister, Laura Cowan Coffey, brothers James (Dollie) Cowan, and Lance Cowan, as well as two nieces, one nephew and numerous cherished cousins and friends.

A Memorial Service for Wesley and his beloved daughter, Emily, who passed away suddenly four years ago, will be announced and held at a later date.