Jesse Dean Cowling, 88, died Oct. 19, 2021, at Wood Lawn Nursing Home, Batesville, Arkansas. The deceased was born Jan. 12, 1933, the son of John P. and Nell Abbott Cowling of Mineral Springs, Arkansas. Jesse grew up, attended, and graduated from the public schools of that community. He was also a graduate of Southern Arkansas University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served on active duty with the United States Army from Nov. 1954 until Sept. 1956.
On June 10, 1956, Mr. Cowling and Miss Kittie Ruth Davis of Batesville, Arkansas were united in marriage. To their union, two sons were born: Kenan Davis and John Barak. Kittie and Barak preceded Jesse in death. He is survived by Kenan and one grandchild, Emma Claire Cowling, the daughter of Barak. Both survivors are California residents.
Jesse Cowling’s vocation was working as director of teaching and training ministries for a series of local congregations cooperating with the Southern Baptist Convention. The churches served are all located in Texas and Arkansas. As a retiree JDC prized highly his membership and involvement in First Baptist of Batesville.
At the age of 12 years, Jesse made a spiritual, emotional, and intellectual commitment to Christian teachings and practice. Throughout the subsequent phases of his life, he employed the gifts accorded to him in the service of truths and entities larger than himself. His diligence and stewardship of his gifts enriched the life experiences of a considerable number of his fellow passengers aboard the spaceship Earth.
Graveside services will begin at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021, at Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22, 2021, at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Ouachita Baptist University or First Baptist Church.
