Ronnie David McGowan was born on August 7, 1956, to Jesse H. and Novaline McGowan. Mr. McGowan had a passion in helping and serving others. After graduating from Rusk High School in 1975, he worked offshore for a bit. He then went on to attend the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science. His service extending throughout several positions of leadership at Bradshaw County Jail and Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, where he retired.

He was a loving husband to Mrs. Vivian McGowan for forty-seven years. To this union, three children were born: Yolanda, David, and Justin. He was a fantastic grandfather to Davieon, Dre'Auna, Tray, Valencia, Chris, Daycia, Nate, Carli, Jade, David Jr. Dailon, Justin, Jayden, Majesti, and Loyalti, and wonderful great-grandfather to Legend, London, Kinsley, and Kingston. "His babies" were his world. Ronnie was very proud of his children's and grandchildren's accomplishments, and it showed.

His big heart and abundance of love emulated within his children and grandchildren. He accepted Christ at an early age, and his faith was the driving force in his life. He continued his walk with Christ throughout his life and was an Elm Grove Baptist church member until his passing.

Mr. McGowan was loved by all who encountered him and was willing to open his home and services to any and everyone. His love for his family and friends was unconditional. His spirit was always "real", and his jokes and jive were always right on time. His life philosophy was to "get Er Done" and handle business. He loved fiercely and always made everyone smile.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse H. and Novaline McGowan; three sisters, Brenda McGowan, Linda G. McGowan, and Glenda Black, one brother, Darryl McGowan Sr.; one son, Justin McGowan, Sr.; one bonus son, Sydney Ryder.

Keeping his memory and legacy alive are his wife, Vivian McGowan; children, Yolanda (Rayford) Gilbert, David (Kayla) McGowan; special sons, James Johnson, Lance Freeman, Allen Christopher; his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Joyce (Willie) Bradley; brothers Jesse Travis (Carolyn) McGowan, Floyd (Celestine) McGowan, Reginald McGowan, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, and many young men whom he’s mentored along his journey.

He will forever be missed and never forgotten.