Alyce S. Cowles, of Otisco, N.Y., went home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, while surrounded by family at her home. She was 83. She was the loving wife of 48 years to the late Thurlow Y. Cowles until his passing on Aug. 10, 2015. Born Sept. 12, 1942, in Auburn, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Charles and Mildred (Rolls) Stevens. She was a 1959 graduate of Skaneateles Central School, earning a Specialized Diploma in Business. She was the best typist in her class, and went on to become the district principal’s secretary in the Skaneateles High School Office, where she worked for several years. Alyce was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her role as homemaker and her greatest joys were her family, home and farm. She diligently cared for her children and taught them truth through God’s Word, demonstrated God’s love and taught them to be wise stewards of all of God’s gifts. She led by example in serving her family and others. Alyce loved being at home and proudly worked alongside her husband and family to grow the family dairy farm. She was a gifted businesswoman who worked hard, managed the farm finances, made difficult decisions, persevered, demonstrated courage in the face of difficulty and risk and took joy in the journey. She and her husband sacrificed to carry out their vision of building on the previous generation’s foundation in order to leave an even better legacy for their children and future generations. They made pivotal decisions that carried positive generational impact. In addition to other farm work, Alyce milked cows twice daily for most of her life and was key in winning the New York State “Super” Milk Award for 30 consecutive years for excellence in milk quality. Alyce cared for the farmstead landscaping, lawns and multiple flower gardens. Her work in keeping them neat and well-manicured was integral to earning the New York Dairy of Distinction Award in 1991 and maintaining that recognition since then. She was a talented gardener who canned and preserved fruits and vegetables every year, and she was known for her homemade bread. She enjoyed knitting and made many pieces for her family and friends. She was a faithful member of Dresserville Bible Baptist Church where she served for years in Ladies Ministries. Some of her work involved packing care boxes for shut-ins and college students, preparing meals and serving in many ways behind the scenes. She was a good listener, an example of strength and character and a mentor. Alyce had deep roots in the community and placed value on friendship. She often remarked with gratitude about her wonderful neighbors and church family. She was a woman of great wealth in things that really matter in life – trust in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and loving and serving those around her. She is survived by four children, Stacy (Brett) Keefer of Quakertown, PA; Stephen (Millie) of Otisco; Jonathan (Lydia) of Otisco and their children, Alyce’s four grandchildren, Boaz, Abigail, Anna and Naomi; and Rebekah of Lansdale, PA and her brother Webb (Sally) Stevens of Skaneateles. In addition to her parents, Alyce was predeceased by her two brothers, Charles Jr. and Alfred Stevens. In accordance with Alyce’s wishes, a private family service will be held at Brew Funeral Home in Auburn, N.Y., with interment in the Spring at Pine Ridge Cemetery, Navarino, N.Y. Contributions in Alyce’s name may be made to Dresserville Bible Baptist Church, 6339 Crofoot Road, Moravia, NY 13118. ...read more read less