Carolyn F. Cowper

October 24, 1932 – January 23, 2026

Carolyn F. Cowper, a woman defined by her unwavering faith, her devotion to family, and a smile that made a friend out of every stranger, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of her children.

A Life of Connection and Adventure

Born in the hills of McCreery, West Virginia, to Joseph "Smitty" and Jessie (Cobb) Smith, Carolyn moved to the Chicago area early in life. She was a proud graduate of St. Gabriel’s High School, but her life truly changed on a blind date when she met Tom Cowper. The two fell in love and were married on January 19, 1952.

In 1959, they moved to West Chicago, where Carolyn would remain for 66 years. Her home was a place of deep roots and radical hospitality; she notably welcomed her Aunt Louise into their home, providing her with a loving place to live for over twenty years.

A Spirit of Joy 

Carolyn never stayed still for long. She was a seasoned traveler who loved exploring the world with friends, always returning with a new treasure for her extensive perfume bottle collection. Her favorite adventures, however, were those shared with her family:

• The Pacific Northwest: She spent many happy summer weeks in Washington with her son Tom, Suzanne, Ryan and Jenna.

• Grandchildren’s Adventures: From camping trips to the magic of Walt Disney World and cheering loudly at sporting events, "Grandma" was always in the middle of the action.

• Home & Heartland: She cherished “glamping” in Michigan with Andrea and Erik, taking great pride in watching them build their home.

• Simple Pleasures: Back home, she loved long lunches with dear friends and hosting special tea parties with her "favorite daughter."

Career and Community

Carolyn’s work ethic was tireless. Early on, she worked for Time Magazine, Jay’s Potato Chips, and Montgomery Ward. While her children were young, she served her faith at St. Mary’s Church as a lay minister delivering communion to those unable to attend Mass, teaching CCD and sponsoring those entering into the Catholic faith. Once her children were older, she began a distinguished 20-year career with the DuPage County Board of Election Commission, serving as the Assistant to the Executive Director, until her retirement in 1996. Her retirement included 3 book clubs a month, harmonica club, DAR, Red Hat Society luncheons, WC Park District luncheons and trips, Silent Film Festivals, and following West End Jazz Band cross country. Even in her final year at The Radcliff Senior Living in Wood Dale, she remained a social pillar—singing in the choir, participating in all activities and joining every club available.

Her Lasting Legacy

Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom (2004); her parents; her brother, Joseph Smith; and her dear Aunt Louise.

She is survived by her four children: Tom (Suzanne) Cowper, Eileen (Dean) Price, Laurel (Mike) Warren, and Andrea (Erik) Roberg. She was the adored grandmother to Ryan (Bree Rabourn) Cowper, Jenna (Tyler Duncan) Cowper, Derek (Grace Glidewell) Warren, and Lindsay Warren. She was also looking forward with great joy to the birth of her first great-grandchild this July.

She is further survived by her brother, John (Loretta) Smith; her sister-in-law Carol Smith; dear friend, Arline Gambla; many cherished nieces and nephews; and her beloved "grand-puppies," Annie, Ellie, and Luna.

 Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Norris-Segert Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 132 Fremont Street (One block north of Washington St. & Main St.) West Chicago. Funeral services at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, 3401 W. 87th Street, Evergreen Park, IL. Please meet at cemetery entrance at 10:45 a.m.

Contributions in Carolyn's memory may be made to OShows Cares NFP 100th anniversary The Arcada in St. Charles, 105 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174 and The Silent Film Society of Chicago, NFP 501c3, 4054 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60641

TO VIEW CAROLYN'S FUNERAL SERVICE AT 7:00 P.M. PLEASE FOLLOW THE LINK BELOW