William Lea Cowan Jr., 76 of Mooreboro, died Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC. 

Born in Rutherford County, he was the son of the late William Lea Cowan Sr and Mary Elizabeth Beaty Cowan.   Bill was a graduate of both East Rutherford High School and the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.  He enjoyed and participated in a number of sports but excelled in tennis and played in both high school and college.  He made his career as a supervisor in the food service industry and before retiring worked at Lowe’s Home Improvement.  He was a devoted Tarheel basketball fan and dedicated father and grandfather. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Keane Cowan. 

Survivors include his son, William Lea Cowan III and wife Shana of Euless, TX, his daughter, Mary Elizabeth (Beth) Cowan of Mooreboro, his grandchildren Belle Cowan, Will Cowan, Kelsey Camby, Arien Martin and Casey Martin and great-grandchild Delilah Camby.

The gathering of friends will be held from 5 until 6 o’clock on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at The Padgett and King Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the ASPCA at www.aspca.org

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com