Roy G. McGowen, 92, of Poplar Bluff passed away Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021, at Cedargate Care Center, where he had been a resident for one day.

          He was born Jan. 31, 1928, to the late Artie Lloyd and Bertha Pennington McGowen.

          Roy was a veteran of the U. S. Navy having served a tour of duty from 1946-1947.  He was assigned to the destroyer, USS Goodrich, which was involved in patrol duty off the coast of Japan.

          On May 21, 1949, he married JoAnn Hawkins.  Their marriage lasted for sixty-nine years until her death in 2018.  Three children were born to their marriage:  Johnny McGowen (Rhonda), Michael McGowen and Brenda Sheridan.

          In addition to his children, he is survived by two grandsons: Joshua Sheridan of Grasonville, Maryland, and Matthew McGowen of Poplar Bluff: five sisters, Frances Inman, Dimple Sallee, Beulah Clark, and Glenda Kirkman all of Poplar Bluff and Vivian McMillin of Pevely, Missouri.

          Roy was preceded in death by his wife and parents, two grandsons: Jeremy McGowen and Justin McGowen, a daughter-in-law, Vickie Trout McGowen, a son-in-law, Marvin Sheridan, two brothers, Robert McGowen and Artie McGowen, Jr., and two sisters, Lois Kirkman and Florine Moore.

          Roy was a member of Little Brushy Baptist church, where he was a deacon for many years. Ill health left him unable to attend.

          During his lifetime, Roy had several careers.  He worked at Gambles (a hardware and appliance store) until the store closed.  He later, along with his wife JoAnn purchased the Western Auto Store in Puxico, Missouri, which they operated for several years.  After selling the store, JoAnn went back to being a homemaker while Roy became an over-the-road truck driver.  He enjoyed seeing the country and meeting new people.  He finally retired and was able to stay at home with the love of his life, JoAnn.

          Roy enjoyed gardening and planted a garden every year including last summer.

Due to the Covid Pandemic, there will be no visitation.  A graveside service will begin at 1pm Friday at Little Brushy Cemetery in Wappapello, with the Rev. Steve Patterson officiating.

          Cotrell Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Roy G. McGowen.