Jon Cozean

Jon D. Cozean passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born March 30, 1938, in Bonne Terre to the late Charles Hugo and Zelda Theo (Martin) Cozean. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Dr. Charles Cozean and Robin Cozean; one sister, Mary Cozean Alexander; and two brothers-in-law, Donald Jacob and Jim Alexander.

Jon was a respected funeral director, historian, writer, and lifelong advocate for the town of Farmington. He was a proud veteran who faithfully served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Throughout his career, he served on numerous civic and professional boards. He was a lifetime member of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Farmington.

A fourth-generation owner of Cozean Memorial Chapel, Jon guided the Cozean Memorial Chapel, which is one of Missouri’s oldest and most distinguished funeral homes. Under his leadership, the funeral home earned twenty-three consecutive Pursuit of Excellence Awards from the National Funeral Directors Association. His innovation, compassion, and professionalism within the funeral profession led to his induction into the NFDA Hall of Excellence.

A man of many talents, Jon’s insatiable curiosity led him into a myriad of hobbies and interests, such as journalism, operation of a small radio station at a young age, history, photography, and astronomy. His fascination with communication led him to study journalism at the University of Missouri. He later earned a master's degree from George Washington University and a doctorate in international relations from American University in Washington, D.C. Jon worked for the New York Times Washington D. C. Bureau, which was, as he put it, a favorite chapter of his life.

Jon’s passion for history, learning, and creativity stayed with him throughout his life. An accomplished writer and photographer, he chronicled local life by capturing everything from community events to high school football games. Jon was an ardent supporter of education and civic engagement, often working closely with Mineral Area College and the Zelda Martin Lecture Series. He taught History at Mineral Area College, as well.

His career and character embodied the best of small-town America: intellectual curiosity, quiet dignity, and a steadfast belief in the power of community. Whether speaking with families in grief, mentoring young professionals, or recording the living history of his hometown, he brought compassion and insight into every endeavor.

Survivors include his sisters, Nancy Cozean Jacob and Jody Cozean (Harry) Styron; sister-in-law, Carole Cozean; nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family. Also surviving is his long-time, good friend, Angie Hahn and her family, Natalie and Marc Mucci, Peyton and Avery; and his funeral home family – the staff of Cozean Memorial Chapel.

The family would like to especially thank the Staff of the Arbors and Preferred Hospice for their compassionate care given to Jon during the past months.

There will be an open visitation at the funeral home on Wednesday and Thursday, November 19 and 20, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. both days. There will be a funeral service and celebration of life at 2 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Farmington, 210 North A Street, Farmington, MO 63640. Entombment, with military honors, will follow at Knights of Pythias Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Jon’s name to Gideons International in care of the funeral home. View the video tribute and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.