Wednesday, October 14, 2026
By Submitted Story on September 25, 2026
Paul Leonard Cowling, Jr., also known as “Too Tall”, age 75, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, in Wanchese, NC. Paul was born on August 20, 1951, in Marquette, Michigan, to the late Paul Leonard Cowling, Sr. and Laura Tousignant. He lived a full and varied life, leaving behind cherished memories for all who knew him.
Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army from November 1968 to March 1974, earning the respect and gratitude of his fellow servicemen. Following his honorable service, he embarked on a long and fulfilling career as a seafood dealer starting with Wanchese Fish Company, and then moved on with Willie R. Etheridge Seafood Company, where he became a beloved member of his work family.
A man of diverse interests, Paul found joy in collecting coins and cars, often indulging his passion through the Bradford Exchange. His collections were a testament to his keen eye and appreciation for history and craftsmanship.
In addition to his parents Paul is preceded in death by his sisters, Carol McKay (Gary), Rose Livingston (Bill), and his brother, Mike Cowling.
He is survived by his daughter, Patricia Vincent (Ron) of Middleton, Ohio, and his grandchildren, Brittany and Steven Wilnewic of Middleton, OH, and Kevin Butler of Piqua, OH. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren, Jaxon and Raina Butler, Maxwell, Memphis, and Monroe Wilnewic, Abel Vander Puttan, Cayden Cox, and Loralei Butler. Paul is also survived by his sisters, Mary Pleaugh (Patrick), Bonnie Nash, and Joan Goodwin (Russ), and brothers, John Cowling and Eddy Cowling (Sharon); His sister-in-law, Vicki Cowling; His nephews, Philip Pleaugh and Matthew Pleaugh (Heather), along with his great-niece, Arianna Pleaugh.
A celebration of life will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the Wanchese Marina and the Landing Grill.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, 500 Budleigh Street, Manteo, NC, is honored to assist the Cowling family. Condolences and memories may be shared on Paul’s obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.
