Jean Willy Cowie

It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that Jean Willy Cowie died tragically on Monday, Oct 27, 2024. He was murdered 15 days after celebrating his 50th birthday party.

Jean was born Oct 10, 1974, in Haiti. He was one of six children, two of whom died of famine. He came to Ottawa, Canada from an orphanage in 1986, together with his biological sister Josette, age five. Adopted into our family of six brothers and four sisters, he was wanted, supported, fiercely loved and grateful to have Josette right by his side. He handcrafted kites, tinkered on bicycles and couldn't resist taking apart electronics that - oops! - would never work again. As a child, he taught us how to play Mancala and was a champion chess player. Children were drawn to his natural charm and bright smile. Jean's default was patience. He loved to take his sweet time: last to wake up, last to finish eating with savoring every bite. He painstakingly thought of the most perfect words to say in any situation. Anyone who knew him would steam at the ears while waiting for him to just say it! Jean was incredibly diplomatic, charismatic, sensitive, gentle, carefully slow, intelligent, charming, friendly, funny and committed to family and friends. It was important for him that everyone set their differences aside to get along. He enjoyed cooking and worked as a sous chef at a downtown restaurant. He took a course at Algonquin College and proudly achieved a PSW certificate and for several years cared for a person with paraplegia. He worked in construction, demolition, landscaping and adored growing his many house plants. He never wanted anyone to worry about him. Jean’s upbringing instilled in him a belief that even the neediest can share with their neighbours. In downtown Ottawa, many knew and cared for him. Despite all of the adversity he faced in his life, Jean was a joyful, loving human being. He was generous with compliments and rarely left a conversation without saying “Love you – have fun – see you, with my smile!”

Jean was preceded in death by his brother, Damien and is survived by his beloved son Damien; devoted parents, Jane, Gordon; siblings, Josette, Laurie, Sarah, Jason, Attiya, Talib, Zamin, Alim, and Momin; 19 nephews & nieces; his loving Aunt and Uncles; Karina & Andrew, and Chris.

Farewell, Jean. We will remember you, with our smiles!

A memorial service will be held on November 16, 2024 at 1:00pm at Ottawa Spiritualist Church 888 Byron Avenue. Donations may be made to The Sally Ann Center of Hope Ottawa Booth Centre 171 George

To first responders and police detectives, thank you for your support and kindness!