Robert McGowan, Jr.

Memorial service for Robert McGowan, Jr. were held Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Gospel Lighthouse Church in Tupelo with John D’Aguanno officiating. Ar rangeme n ts were under the direction of Brown’ Funeral Service of Coalgate.

Robert Mack McGowan Jr, a Tupelo resident, was born on December 27, 1951, to Naomi Ruth (O’Leary) McGowan, at Carbondale, IL. He passed away on November 26, 2024, at his beautiful home in Tupelo, OK surrounded by loved ones and all his animals. Robert was 72 years, 10 months and 30 days old at the time of his passing.

He was raised and attended schools in California. Robert received his diploma while in the U.S. Army. He received a Purple Heart for his bravery while serving in the Vietnam War. He was a pastor who loved to minister to people. He volunteered many hours in several prison ministries. Robert served as chaplain at the VA Hospital in Sulphur and was the biker chaplain for Valley View Hospital in Ada. He truly loved people. His smile and dedication brought hope to many.

Robert married Kathleen Echols on August 20, 1998, at Tupelo, OK. They were blessed with a beautiful home and family during their 26 years together. He enjoyed walking his dogs and cherished all the special times with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Kathleen McGowan of the home in Tupelo; sons, Scotty McGowan of Tallahassee, FL and Donivan McKenzie and wife Stephanie of McKinney, TX; daughter, Laura Roebuck and husband Anthony of Tupelo; grandchildren, Kolton Johnston and wife Rochelle, Kyndal Johnston and Nathan Park all of Tupelo, Delana McKenzie, Dexter McKenzie, both of McKinney, TX; greatgranddaughter, Adaline Johnston of Tupelo; siblings, Linda Craig and husband Billy of San Bernardino, CA, David McCloud and wife Barbara of Laramie, WY; brotherin- law, Gary Echols and wife Brenda of Purcell, OK; sisters-in-law, Linda Echols of Byng, OK, Karen Burris of Coalgate and Rebecca Saint and husband Bill of Stonewall, OK; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends including his Biker Ministry friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Naomi Ruth (O’Leary) McCloud; daughter, Amanda McGowan; father-in-law, E. W. Echols; motherin- law, Clara Anderson and husband C.B.; and brothers-in-law, Noah Burris and Gerald Echols.

Condolences may be sent to the family by email to: brownsfscoalgate@sbcglobal.net. Please reference the name of the deceased in your correspondence.