It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Jerry Cowhig, a former chair and honorary secretary of the MJA. Jerry died suddenly at his home in Bristol on 23 May 2025. He was a leading figure in medical journalism and publishing for many years and his contributions to the MJA and the wider field will be remembered by many members.
Jerry joined the MJA in 1971 as its 100th member and played a pivotal role in shaping the association. He served as honorary secretary in the late 1970s and chaired the organisation from 1982 to 1986. His dedication and service were recognised by the MJA when he was made an honorary member in 2003, a testament to the lasting impact of his work and leadership.
Jerry’s career began as editor of General Practitioner at Haymarket Publishing in 1972, he spent over two decades there, progressing to editorial director of MIMS, Medeconomics, and other medical titles, eventually becoming joint managing director of Haymarket’s medical division.
In 1995, Jerry transitioned to IOP Publishing as managing director, where he oversaw significant growth in scientific publishing, expanding the company’s output to more than 60 journals.
His contributions to science and publishing were formally recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, where he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
Outside of his professional life, Jerry was a talented musician, with a lifelong love of singing. A former choirboy turned counter-tenor, he sang with the choir at St Mary Redcliffe in Bristol, where his funeral service will take place.
Jerry served as a trustee and presenter on Bristol Community FM radio where he hosted a weekly classical music hour every Friday. He broadcast his final show on BCfm on the morning of his death – sharing his love of music and extensive knowledge with the people of Bristol.
Shaun Lintern, Chair of the MJA, said: “It’s always sad to lose a longstanding member and having spoken with Jerry’s family they would be very pleased for any MJA member to pay their respects.
“It’s clear Jerry was a gifted editor and publisher but also a kind and generous mentor to many in our industry. His sudden loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Jerry’s family—Annette, Margot, and Rick Cowhig—invite friends, colleagues, and admirers of Jerry to join them in saying a fond goodbye.
The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, 9 July 2025, at 1pm at St Mary Redcliffe Church, 12 Colston Parade, Bristol BS1 6RA. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person.
A reception will follow at the Royal West of England Academy (RWA), Queen’s Road, Bristol BS8 1PX, with doors opening at 2.30pm and proceedings beginning at 3pm.
In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, attendees are encouraged to wear what feels right for them, with a splash of colour welcome—West Ham United’s claret and blue colours hold special significance.
Instead of flowers, donations in Jerry’s memory will be split between Bristol Ensemble, Myeloma UK, the Royal West of England Academy, and Bristol Community FM (BCfm). Contributions can be made via the tribute page: Tribute to Jerry Cowhig, 1945–2025.
Recent Comments