Jowilla Couch,79, affectionately known by her loved ones as Willie, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2024, in Hays, Kansas. Born on June 1, 1945, in Lawrence, Kansas, Jowilla's life was a testament to her loving, generous, and thoughtful nature, touching the lives of many. She came into this world behind two sets of twins and was immediately special in her own way as she was the first “single” to arrive.
Jowilla was raised in Garden City where she attended and graduated from the local schools. After graduating with an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from Garden City Community College, she embarked on a fulfilling career that began at Southwestern Bell. She continued her professional journey at Western State Bank and found her calling at Golden Plains Credit Union, where she rose through the ranks to become Senior Vice President. Even after retirement, Jowilla remained a dedicated board member, contributing her wisdom and experience for many years.
Family was the cornerstone of Jowilla's world. She shared a beautiful and adventurous life with her beloved husband, Jim Couch. Together, they traveled the world, with a particular fondness for cruises. Jowilla's dedication to her family knew no bounds, and she was the proud matriarch to her sons Greg Cox, Brett Cox and his companion Kim Smith, Robert Couch, and Curtis and his wife Colleen Couch. Her sisters Janis Mastin and Joyce, along with her husband Mike Triebold, held a special place in her heart, as did her sisters-in-law Doris Arwine and Roberta Arwine.
Jowilla's is also survived by her grandchildren Ashlee Murray, Kristalle Hedrick, Arin Cox, Trevor Cox, Taylor Cox, Katie Berland, Jennifer Unruh, Carter Cox, and Isaac Cluster, 13 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Each family gathering was brightened by her presence, and her love and guidance were the pillars upon which her family thrived.
She is preceded in death by her parents, step-father Paul Hoffman, brothers Joe, Jack, and James, a brother-in-law Bert Mastin, and sisters-in-law June and Faye.
Known for her impeccable standards of cleanliness, Jowilla's home was always spotless, earning the affectionate nickname of "Willie Clean." Her passion for cleaning, ironing, and mopping was matched only by her love for her family and friends. Jowilla's warm and generous spirit made her a friend to many, and her thoughtfulness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
In every aspect of life, Jowilla exemplified the very best of what it means to be caring and dedicated. Her unwavering support and love for her family, her commitment to her career and community, and her zest for life's adventures left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.
Visitation will be held Sunday June 16, 2024 from 10:00 am until 6:00 p.m. and Funeral Services will take place at 10:30 am Monday June 17, 2024 both at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City, Kansas. Burial will follow in Valley View Cemetery of Garden City, Kansas. Memorial Contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association in care of Garnand Funeral Home.