Kathryn Cowan
Kathryn Carlotta Ghiden Cowan, born May 13, 1924, was cradled in the arms of peace at her home on Friday, December 27, 2019.
She was the youngest of eight children of the late Mr. James B. “Gene” Ghiden, Sr. and Mrs. Annie Mae Jackson Ghiden. She was a faithful member of Mission Ridge Baptist Church for over 80 years. Through these years she was active in the Sunday School, Red Circle, Junior Matrons, Missionary Society, Mothers Board and Choir. She was educated in the public schools and was a graduate of Howard High School in the Class of 1942. She was employed by the Chattanooga City School System with 29 years of service, five years as a second grade teacher and 24 years as a Speech Therapist. Her education extended to Spelman College (Atlanta), Clark College (Atlanta) and Zion College (Chattanooga). She graduated from Clark College in 1955 Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She had many years of education include the National School of Business, University of Cincinnati, Western Reserve University, University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Trevecca College.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilthia Cowan of over 53 years; brothers, James B. Jr., Martin A., Charles L. and Thomas C. Ghiden; sisters, Annie B. Favors, Clara G. James and Rosa G. Jones. She is survived by nieces; Evelyn G. Newman (Ohio), Camille G. Graves, Rita (Jerome) White, Susan G. (Wayne) Winston, and Tina (James) Player (Chattanooga, TN); nephews; Jermaine (Jessica) Favors, Danny C. (Felicia) Ghiden (Florida), Reginald (Vanessa) Ghiden (Texas), Robert Ghiden (Texas) and many great-nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends.
The family extends a special thanks to the faithful, loving and the dedication of the Caregivers that provided 24-hour care, also, thanks to Amedisys Home Health Care and Amedisys Hospice Services of Chattanooga.
Public viewing will begin at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to her home church, Mission Ridge Baptist Church, 3778 Wilcox Blvd., Chattanooga, Tn. 37411.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 423 622-9995.