BLOUNT COUNTY. Tenn. (WATE) – Since Deputy Greg McCowan’s death, those closest to him have had to deal with the loss of a loving person who was always there when they needed him.
“Whether he was in or out of uniform, Greg was the same person,” said Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper Evan Lane.
Lane knew McCowan since he was training to be a deputy. He recalls being told he would be lucky to work with McCowan when he was sworn in. Since then, Lane built a relationship with McCowan in and outside of working together, saying they would always try to catch up when off duty.
“Was just one of those guys you always wanted on your side, whether it was in a fight or you just needed a lending hand. He was just an all-around great guy,” said Lane.
In 2021, Lane, McCowan, and other first responders helped save a man’s life by rescuing him from a burning vehicle. Later, four Blount County Sheriff deputies, including McCowan, received the Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Award. Lane was awarded the Law Enforcement Commendation for an exceptional act of valor.
“It was always nice to see Greg pull up on one of my traffic stops and back me; when I got to see that 2344 back me up I knew I was in good hands,” said Lane, “he would help me conquer one goal, that is maintain safety, make sure I was safe, and just try to help out where he could.”
On or off duty, Lane said McCowan was always someone you wanted by your side.
“All around great guy, he loved his family, loved his friends, loved his coworkers, loved the job that he did, and you know he didn’t half it, he went full into it,” he said.
Lane believes McCowan’s legacy will never be forgotten, especially for the person who eventually needs to take his place at the BCSO.
“He was loved by everybody, you didn’t hear one person say one bad thing about him, that I know of, they’re going to have some shoes to fill, for sure,” said Lane.
While he has been coping with the loss, Lane said it has been a breath of fresh air to see how the community has supported those closest to McCowan.