William K. "Bill" Cowart, Jr., 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

Bill was born on May 21, 1932, in Okeechobee, FL where he spent the first six years of his childhood. From there his family moved to Attapulgus, GA where his fondest childhood memories resided. After moving to Havana, FL and graduating from Havana High School in 1949, he went on to attend Florida State University where he received his bachelor's degree in business administration. It was there where he became a passionate fan of Florida State football. After college, he proudly served our country in the US Air Force, serving mostly in Germany.

Bill married Mary Nell Kilgore on September 10, 1961. They lived briefly in Jacksonville, FL before moving to Pensacola in 1965 where he lived the remaining 60 years of his life. As a father of three children, he was consistent in his love and support to them and actively participated in their lives. He encouraged their dreams and led by example in demonstrating kindness, responsibility, and respect.

Bill retired in 1996 after a 34-year tenure with the Office of the Auditor General. During his retirement years, he continued serving his church faithfully as an usher and later served as treasurer. He always found opportunities to serve others in the community, including the Pensacola Manna Food Bank, helping them to provide food for those that were in need. Those who knew and worked with him were inspired by his strong work ethic, love for people, and his light-hearted friendly nature. He enjoyed spending time with his family and doing various leisure activities such as walking, playing cards, working puzzles, and baking. He was loved by all that knew him and will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William K. Cowart, Sr. and Allie Reasoner Cowart.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Mary Nell Cowart; his three children and their spouses, Susan Brown (Wally), William K. Cowart III (Lynda), and Lisa Bodenheimer (Marc); five grandchildren, Bryson Bodenheimer, Katherine Cowart, Audrey Brown, Luke Cowart, and Brooke Bodenheimer; his sister, Miriam Jackson; as well as his nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held 1:30pm Saturday, February 8, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, with Dr. Henry Roberts officiating. A private graveside service will follow at Bayview Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please make a donation to the Pensacola Manna Food Bank.