Captain Jerome P.F. Cowart, Jr. was born to Jerome P.F. Cowart, Sr. and Barbara Jean Cowart on April 13, 1958, in Orange Park, Florida. He graduated from East Bay High School in Ruskin, Florida and immediately enlisted in the United States Navy. A career of adventure ensued for Boatswain’s Mate Cowart, the high points of which included service aboard USS Sacramento, USS La Salle, USS Forrestal, USS Engage, and USS Oakridge, as well as combat operations during Operations URGENT FURY and JUST CAUSE. He retired from the naval service on Halloween Day, 1994.

Following retirement, he earned a captaincy in the United States Merchant Marine and served on the tugs Lady December, Kimbo, and Robert. Captain Cowart passed away aboard the Robert on September 24, 2024, pursuing the nautical life that was his passion for 66 years, a sailor to the end.

Known as “Jerry” to friends and family, he is best known for his intense faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, a deep abiding love for his family, a devotion and sense of duty to his country, and an unbridled sense of humor, which he never lost.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of nearly 41 years, Sonya Lenore; daughter Krystal Burleigh and her husband Scott; son Joshua and his wife Elizabeth; and grandchildren Shiloh Smith, Lydia Smith, Trinity Smith, Olivia Cowart, and Brody Cowart.

There will be a small, private ceremony held to honor his life at the family’s estate, Dove Glen. The family requests that, if desired, donations be made to either the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society or the National Rifle Association, both organizations which Captain Cowart supported throughout his life.