Sally H. Cowles

Sally Hastings Cowles, mother of eight, grandmother of thirteen, passed away peacefully at home in Newburyport, Massachusetts on February 9, 2026 surrounded by her loved ones. 

Some of her most cherished accomplishments involve working with children, including coaching youth soccer for 14 seasons, spearheading the saving of the Kelley School back in the 1980’s, working at Mass General in the Neonatal Pediatric Intensive Care unit with Dr. David Todres, and serving as a nanny for several different children after her retirement from Mass General.  In her own words, “Working with children makes me happy.  It soothes my soul, that is all.” 

Her life’s passion though was being a mother.  “I never did wish to be anything but a mother.  It takes concentration, patience, a delicate touch.  It is an art in many ways.  My family is my world, my everything.  No one outsider will ever be more important than my children and grandchildren.  I always want my children and grandchildren to be aware of the love I have for them.  It is comforting to think of someone loving you always when you are falling asleep at night and waking up in the morning.”

Sally is survived by her eight children, Christopher Hastings (Mary), Shaun Hastings, David Hastings (Tina), Michael Hastings (Dale), Laura Hastings (Scott), Patrick Cowles, Timothy Cowles (Carla), and Warren Cowles, thirteen grandchildren, and nephews, Jim D’Alfonso and Robert Townsend.

The family will host a celebration of Sally’s life at a later date. The Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950 is assisting Mrs. Cowles’ family with her arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to help support healthy moms and strong babies to the March of Dimes at, www.marchofdimes.org.

To offer online condolences please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com

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