Betty Smith Cowan

Betty Smith Cowan, 72, of Watkinsville, GA, passed away May 25, 2014. She was born October 1, 1941 in Wadley, GA to the late James Norton Smith and Cora Dell Stevens.
The Cowan family moved to Oconee County in 1979 and her lifetime was devoted to the children of Athens and Oconee County as well as to her family. Her passion for children encouraged Ms. Betty to establish KiddieLand Day Care Center in Athens, GA in 1970, where she continued as owner and director until her retirement in 1995. During her time at KiddieLand, she helped raise thousands of children and their children, while greeting them at the door with a smile every morning.
Upon her retirement, she pursued a life of grandkids, travel and fishing. She was blessed with an abundance of grandchildren to keep her busy and keep the house filled with laughter. Every Saturday in the fall, she could be found tailgating at UGA football games and loved cooking for her friends and family. She and her husband, Don, were fortunate enough to be able to travel the world together in their retirement.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Donald E. Cowan: Children: Teresa Cowan Lance (David Lance), Robert Edward Cowan (Kathy Cowan) and Donna Cowan Nettis (Steven J. Nettis Jr.). Grandchildren: Ashley Lance, Carlie Cowan, Ansley Lance, Shelby Rice, Taylor Nettis, Jackson Cowan, Emily Cowan. Siblings: James Smith and Mack Peters.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, May 28th at 11:00 am at Lord and Stephens West, 1211 Jimmy Daniel Road, Bogart, GA 30622. Reverend Dan Fuller and Chaplin Bill Hayes will be officiating the service. The family will be receiving visitors Tuesday, May 27th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Lord and Stephens West.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to: St. Mary's Hospice House, 1660 Jennings Mill Rd, Bogart, GA 30622.
Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.