Beatrice Cowette, 78, of Derry, NH, died Thursday May 28, 2015 in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Manchester, England on May 9, 1937, a daughter of the late Harold and Alice (Hollowood) Staunton. It is her childhood in England and growing up during the war that shaped her outlook on life. She loved all things English. To honor her mother and father she never gave up her English citizenship. She immigrated to America when she was 10 years old and she and her family settled in Derry. Bea graduated from Pinkerton Academy, class of 1955. Bea held Pinkerton close to her heart, never missing a reunion, and attending hundreds of her children’s events.
Bea married the love of her life, Richard Cowette, and built their home in East Derry raising their family there. Bea loved creating many flower gardens surrounding her home. Her love of gardening came from watching and learning from her father. Her favorite flowers were peonies and tulips. Most Sundays you could find her and her lifelong friend Bette Lannan, at a local antique flea market searching for just the right bargain.
Holidays for Bea were a time to bring family together. She worked tirelessly to create family memories that were filled with love and laughter. Bea had six grandchildren and one great grandchild; they each held a special place in her heart. Her friends and family will always remember her smile, clever sarcasm, and the kindness she showed to others. Bea was beautiful inside and out and will be missed dearly.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Richard D. Cowette, Sr. of Derry; two daughters, Susan Cowette of Concord, Caroline Cowette of Newton, MA and three sons, Richard D. Cowette, Jr. of Derry, Anthony Cowette and his wife Kathleen of Londonderry, NH, and Jason Cowette and his wife Jennifer of Bedford, NH., six grandchildren; one great grandchild; two sisters, Patricia Kus of Derry, and Carol Fongemie of Derry; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by one son, Joseph Cowette and her sister Peggy Swaine of Manchester, England.
Following cremation, calling hours were held on Tuesday June 2 from 4 - 8pm at the Peabody Funeral Home, 15 Birch Street, Derry. Funeral services were held on Wednesday June 3 at 10:00am in the First Parish Church, 47 East Derry Rd., Derry. The burial followed in Forest Hill Cemetery in Derry. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the Salvation Army.