Emma Ann Cowan Brown, 83, of Hamlet, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at Richmond County Hospice Haven.
She was born June 3, 1942 in Hamlet, daughter of the late James Earl Cowan and Sadie Saunders Cowan.
Emma attended Hamlet High School, graduated from the Class of 1960, and took her first job at Buttercup Ice Cream, where she stayed until 1977. Upon its closure, she moved on to new endeavors with Southern National Bank, serving in various roles and witnessing its transition to BB&T, where she retired in 2014 at age 72.
In the latter part of her career, Emma excelled as a customer service representative, allowing her personality to shine through both her work and the countless relationships she developed with her clients. Anywhere and at any time, she would always greet you by name and with a warm smile. She took pride in serving her community, lending a hand to others to the fullest extent.
Above all else, Emma’s role as a mother was her biggest priority. She stopped at nothing to ensure her two daughters, Robin and Dawn, received the best quality of life she could provide. Her grandson, Carson, would also receive the blessing of her warmth and kindness.
Aside from her family and friends, Emma had a deep fondness for animals. She cared for several dogs and cats throughout her life, which gave her further purpose and great joy.
Emma joined Second Baptist Church on July 1, 1952, where she remained a faithful member for nearly 73 years. Despite her decline, Dawn was instrumental in allowing her to continue in her faith and ensured she attended First Presbyterian Church whenever possible.
On Dec. 31, Emma made a new home at Scotia Village Urban House, where despite her condition, she touched the hearts of the staff who worked tirelessly to care for her. The staff was instrumental in helping her navigate the difficult transition from her home, and the family would like to extend their gratitude for their grace and hospitality.
Along with her parents, Emma was preceded in death by her daughter, Robin Brown Senes; and brothers, Jimmy Cowan and Johnny Cowan.
Left to cherish her memories are her daughter and son-in-law, Dawn and Terry Jordan of Rockingham; grandson, Carson Jordan; sister, Sue Cooper of Aberdeen; sisters-in-law, Linda Frye and Shirley Cowan; nieces and nephews, Elizabeth Ballard (Alan), James Cowan, Julie Cowan, Lisa Steiner (Clayton), Jonathon Cowan (Cory), Amy Crabtree (Todd) and Corey Cooper (Morgan); and special friends, Kenny and Shay Edwards, and their children, Ansley and Abbey, and Butch and Wendy Jordan, and their son, Noah.
Visitation will be Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 12:30-1:45 p.m. at Second Baptist Church, Hamlet. The Celebration of Life service will begin at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Chris Hawks officiating. Burial will be held private with the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Second Baptist Church, 518 4th St., Hamlet, NC 28345; or Richmond County Hospice, 1119 N. U.S. Hwy. 1, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Brown family. Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
