Rev. Dr. James G. Cousins

The Rev. Dr. James G. Cousins, 88, of Blooming Valley, died Thursday, April 19, 2001 at Meadville Medical Center following a brief illness.

He was born in Pleasantville, Venango County, December 14, 1912, a son of Joseph A. and Jessie Beck Cousins.  He married Thelma Johnston June 14, 1937 and she survives.

A United Methodist Clergyman, Dr. Cousins was a graduate of Academy High School, a 1937 graduate of Allegheny College and a 1940 graduate of Drew Theological Seminary.  He pastored churches in Northwestern PA including Blooming Valley, New Castle, Linesville, New Bethlehem, Ridgeway, Warren, Oil City and Girard, retiring in 1978.  In his retirement, he continued to serve first at Mt. Hope-Pine Grove charge and then at the State Road-Teepleville charge.  He had served as District Superintendent of the Erie-Meadville District of the Western PA Congerence of the United Methodist Chruch from 1968 to 1973.

Dr. Cousins was honored by his Alma Mater, Allegheny College, in 1971, with the presentation of Doctor of Divinity Degree.  It was stated at that time that he was an effective preacher presenting the Gospel in vivid and convincing terms.  He was described by his colleagues as a "big man physically, intellectually and spiritually."

His hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, camping and woodworking.  He made several grandfather clocks.

Survivors, in addition to his wife of 63 years, include two daughters, JoAnn Ebbert (Richard) of Sturgis, MI and Janet Lochrane (Thomas) of Walworth, NY; a son, James A. Cousins of Blooming Valley; six grandchildren, Amy Roan, Scott Ebbert, Allen Cousins, Brian Cousins, JoAnn Cedruly and Thomas Lochrane; five great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Neva Chismar of Blooming Valley and Helen Bishop of Hermitage.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Jessie Berry and Dorothy Cousins; and four brothers, Rev. William A. Cousins, Joseph Cousins, Richard Cousins and Albert Cousins.

Services were held at Waid Funeral Home.

Interment was in Blooming Valley Cemetery.