John Gerald McGowan

John Gerald McGowan, affectionately known to those close to him as Johnny Gerald, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at Phelps Health in Rolla, Missouri. He was 83 years of age. 

Born on July 9, 1942, near Richland, Missouri, John lived a life marked by quiet kindness, steady resolve, and a smile that could brighten any room. His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.

John was a gentle soul, one who quietly offered help to anyone he believed was in need. Known for his ever-present smile and his genuine happiness to see others, he had a remarkable gift for seeing the best in people. His calm demeanor and warm heart made him a cherished friend and neighbor in the Vichy and St. James communities where he called home.

From his early days, John was rooted deeply in the places he loved. His schooling began at Swedeborg, Missouri, and he also attended school in Richland, Missouri and Union, Missouri. His working years were spent diligently at Carmo Shoe & Coat Company in Union for six years, where he met the love of his life, Joan Ennis. He and Joan were married on May 29,1962 in Union, Missouri. Together, they raised two children, Geraldine and Johnny, nurturing them with the same kindness John expressed to the world.

John’s career path was one of dedication and craftsmanship. After Carmo Shoe Company, he worked four years at Chrysler Corporation, and then, he took on the role of equipment operator in telephone construction. In 1972, John moved his family to St. James where he continued working in telephone construction when the workload permitted. When the telephone business slowed, he picked up hours at Randy Ray's Tire and other part time work until his retirement.

After retiring, John and Joan bought a farm near Vichy. He loved caring for their home and their land. He found joy in clearing and mowing their property; he also enjoyed mechanic work, repairing tractors and lawn mowers-- often spending time painting them as well. Beyond his physical labor, John delighted in the visits of his grandchildren, relishing moments spent with them.

John was preceded in death by his beloved son, Johnny, born February 12, 1967, who passed away on February 29, 2004. Also, gone before him are two grandchildren, Michelle, who passed August 15, 2020, and Dillon, who passed October 27, 2020. His parents, John Joseph McGowan (June 5, 1911 – December 7, 1983) and Helen Elizabeth Powers McGowan (October 5, 1915 –October 3, 2004), as well as sisters, Catherine “Katy” Kloppenberg (passed January 24, 2022) and Doris Dobsch (passed March 19, 2020) preceded him in death.

John leaves behind his loving wife, Joan and his daughter, Geraldine. The legacy of his love and spirit also lives on through his seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His family will carry forward his memory and the warmth he brought into their lives.

Visitation will be 6:00 - 8:00 PM Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Jones Funeral Home is St. James, Missouri.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Friday, May 1, 2026 at Jones Funeral Home. Following the service, burial will be at 1:30 PM at Mid-Lawn Memorial Gardens, 7280 State Hwy 47 in Union, Missouri.

John Gerald McGowan’s life reminds us all of the beauty in quiet strength, the power of kindness, and the enduring nature of faith, when he expressed his favorite scripture, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Though he has left this world, his spirit continues to inspire and uplift all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Floral offerings and condolences to the family may be entered at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.