GRETNA, Va. Edward Hamilton Cowan Jr., age 78, of Gretna, died on Monday, May 7, 2018, at SOVAH Health in Danville. Born on September 27, 1939, in Washington, D.C., he was a son of the late Edward Hamilton Cowan Sr. and Grace Ledford Cowan. He was predeceased by one grandson, James Eby; and three stepsons, Tom Brownlow, Billy Brownlow and John Brownlow. Mr. Cowan was a Crane Operator for the Local 77 Union in Washington, D.C., and was an Army veteran. He loved nature and animals, especially his rescue dogs and cats. He is survived by his wife, Anastasia Reed Brownlow Cowan of the residence; one son, Michael Edward Cowan and wife, April, of Lynch Station; one daughter, Victoria Eby and husband, Jeff, of Stafford; two stepdaughters, Stacy Magner of Altavista and Christen Mays and husband, David, of Moneta; five grandchildren, Lori Gasemy and husband, Danny, Jeanette Hager and husband, Brian, Samantha Vanhyning, Jeffrey Eby and Jennifer Cowan; four great-grandchildren; 11 step grandchildren and 10 step great-grandchildren. Catholic Funeral Rite will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, May 12, 2018, at Colbert-Moran Chapel by the Rev. Mr. Chris Barrett. Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna, is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.