Cindra Darlene Cowen

Our beloved Cindra Darlene Cowen nee Chapin departed this earth at sunrise on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, due to of injuries from a tragic automobile accident.

Born in Columbus, OH in 1958 to Harvey & Sandra Chapin, Cindra had a love for animals and the outdoors from a very young age.  Whether riding horses or taking walks, she never missed a chance to spend time outside enjoying the peace she found in nature.  Cindra graduated from North Union High School in 1976 before enlisting in the Air Force in 1980.  Her time in service took her all over the world and earned her multiple awards and medals of commendation.  From Idaho to Illinois, Guam to Florida, Japan to Georgia, and then ultimately back to the Fort Walton Beach area, Cindra spent her entire military career as an educator, including being an NCO Leadership Instructor.  After retirement in 2000, Cindra focused on her love of animals by operating a Bengal Cattery and filled many homes with the love of a new kitten. A devoted mother and friend, Cindra was a beacon of light in so many people’s lives. She was a student of spirituality who spent much of her time in meditation as well as reading and learning more about the universe and herself. From her volunteer work at Alaqua Animal Refuge to the spiritual mentorship she provided to many, she played a vital role in her communities at home and online. Always available with an empathetic heart, a compassionate ear, and an open mind, Cindra was a true nurturer to all who knew her.

Cindra is survived by her daughter and best friend, Kristina Marie Smith (Christopher Debeaux); her former partner and lifelong friend, Steve Cowen; stepson, Kalen Lee Cowen; grandsons, Jaxon and Noah Cowen; mother, Sandra Roush; sisters, Sherré Lynn DeMao and Gena Flick; brother, Todd (Dorothy) Roush; the Tucker family; grand-cat, BabaLu; as well as nieces and nephews, Cassandra, Amaria, Savannah, Aaron, Michael, Jeremy, Carter and Brady.

She is preceded in death by her father, Harvey Chapin; her stepfather, Gary Roush; and her cherished cats, Shpitfire Leo, Wu Wu Wu, Mystical, Spyder, and her Grand-cat, Monkie Bear.

A celebration of life will be conducted on July 31st at 2 p.m.  Services will be held at Davis-Watkins Funeral Home at 113 NE Racetrack Rd in Fort Walton Beach. The family requests casual attire and a donation to Alaqua Animal Refuge (alaqua.org) in lieu of flowers.