Frances Irwin Cowgill, devoted church member, saleswoman

Frances Irwin Cowgill, 91, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Monday, Nov. 3, 2025.

Frances was born in Milton in 1934 to John and Anne Cowgill. She grew up in Milton and Rehoboth Beach.

She had a deep love for playing bridge and genuinely enjoyed hosting games at her home. Frances was also an active member of the Village Improvement Association, where she frequently played.

Her commitment extended to her faith, as she was a devoted member of Westminster Presbyterian Church for 68 years. In her earlier years, she served as a Sunday school teacher, and as time went on, she continued to find new ways to volunteer and contribute to her church community.

Frances was also a remarkable salesperson. She started her career at the Dinner Bell gift shop and later transitioned to the Wooden Indian, where she worked for over 40 years. She cherished her time there and highly valued her friendships with the owners, Joe and Paul, whom she considered family.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Ellen Peden (Bill) and Betty Ellison; her nephews, Gene Ellison and John Peden; and her great-niece, Anniston Peden. She is survived by her sister, Ruth (Curt deceased); her brother-in-law, Gene Ellison; and her nieces and nephews, Trippi (Karen), Debbie (Mike), Niki (Gary), Beth (Tom), Matt (Marcia), Jimmy, Susan and Karen; 18 grand-nieces and -nephews; and 20 great-great-nieces and -nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 21, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 301 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach. A reception will follow in the church hall. Interment will be private.

The family would like to thank Brandywine Assisted Living for the wonderful care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest contributions be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or the Village Improvement Association.

For online condolences, visit yasikfh.com.