James McGowan

James J. McGowan was called to his heavenly Father on Sunday, November 17th, 2019 at age 87. He was married for over 61 years to the love of his life Marie. He leaves behind two daughters, Christine and Dee (Mark) Perkins, a son in law Mark and a grandson Taylor. He was the second of six sons born to Michael and Susan McGowan (nee McMorrow) and was born at home in Manhattan on December 5th, 1932. Soon thereafter the family of four moved and settled in the Belmont area of the Bronx. As a good Irish Catholic family, four more sons were born in short order with Frank in 1933, Jerome in 1936, Charles in 1939 and Hugh in 1942. Jim started at St. Joseph’s grammar school in 1937, one year behind his older brother Michael John (Jack) and he followed him to Cardinal Hayes High School and graduated in 1949. After high school, Jim volunteered for a 2-year tour of duty with the U.S. Navy. In 1951 with the Korean War ongoing both Jim and Jack left home for Navy Boot Camp. As part of his service, he worked at a radio station in Trinidad. In 1953 Jim was Honorably Discharged and started night school at Fordham University where he earned a Bachelor's degree in 1960. He returned to Fordham Law School in 1968 and earned a Law degree in 1972. Jim didn’t have the luxury of attending college and law school during the day but he managed his time well by going at night while working full time and raising a family. He started his career with the AAA in February 1953 and 44 years later retired as a Vice President and for many years after he continued to serve as a consultant and board member. While he was at the AAA he fought for seatbelt use, keeping tolls from the free bridges in NYC and raising the drinking age. Many times he used his law degree to help family members and friends who needed his counsel. On weekdays, Jim would leave his house before the sun rose and get in as many laps as possible in the YMCA pool in Flushing. He also loved playing chess and the New York Times crossword puzzle. Jim will be greatly missed by family, friends, and acquaintances he has encountered over his long life. He was a man of great faith who went to mass on a daily basis for most of his life. We wish him God speed and hope he will save a place for us in heaven. Calling hours will be at Village Chapels on Wednesday from 2-6 pm. Funeral Service will be held at Our Lady of Hope (67-67 Eliot Ave. Middle Village, NY) at 9:45 am on Thursday.