James Robert Gowin

James Robert Gowin, age 64, of Rusk, Texas, peacefully passed away at home on Friday, August 23, 2024, surrounded by family. Born on August 26, 1959, in Jacksonville, Texas, he was the son of James and Betty Gowin and was one of seven siblings. 

 

Robert spent his formative years in Palmer, Texas, where he was well known around town as one of the Gowin Boys. He dedicated many of his young adult years to serving the City of Palmer, where he was fortunate to work alongside his father. He then continued his career with Owens Corning before concluding his professional journey with Berry & Clay Construction. 

 

Known as a jack of all trades, Robert possessed a remarkable ability to fix just about anything that came his way. His legacy of hard work and resourcefulness will be remembered by all who knew him. 

 

When he wasn’t working, Robert could often be found immersed in his passions for hunting, spotlighting, or fishing. Many evenings were spent driving around Ellis County with a spotlight, aiming at hogs, bobcats, foxes, or any creature that dared to show its glowing eyes. Whether it was legal or not, those nights were filled with laughter and excitement, shared with family and friends who cherished every moment by his side. However, one fateful night, the fun took a turn when he accidentally shot out the block of his beloved Dodge Ram pickup truck, resulting in irreparable damage to the motor. Regrettably for Robert, just as he thought he had escaped that story forever, it reappeared in his obituary, destined to be a part of his legacy. 

 

Robert also had a deep love for raising animals. His home was a haven for nearly every type of animal imaginable, and even a few that most wouldn’t consider, like the ring-tailed lemur he cherished for several years. That lemur certainly has its own tale to tell, but perhaps that's a story for another time. His most cherished companions in recent years were his two dogs, Choco and Shorty Brown, who remained by his side until the very end. His passion for the outdoors and the animals that shared it was a significant part of who he was, yet nothing compared to the boundless love he held for his family. 

 

Robert was a man of unwavering devotion and a kind heart. His compassion and empathy radiated through his every action, making him a true source of comfort for those in need. Whenever someone was feeling down, he was always there, offering a shoulder to lean on and words of encouragement that uplifted spirits. Robert's final years were spent with his devoted wife, Bettie, who provided exceptional care during his illness. Her unwavering support, along with his family's, was instrumental in keeping him strong during his last months. 

 

As an exceptional husband, father, and grandfather, he loved his family with all his heart. His loved ones will tell you that there was truly no one like him; he was simply the best. 

 

Robert is preceded in death by: James and Betty Gowin, Kerrie Gowin, James Mills, Lisa Gail Mills, Dawson Gowin and many close aunts and uncles. 

 

He is survived by his wife, Bettie Gowin and his 8 children: son, Russell Brazier and wife, Vanessa, son, James “Eddie” Gowin and wife Lindsey, son, Jameson Gowin and wife Jessica, son, Chris Gowins and wife Gloria, son, Justin Gowin, daughter, Carrie Albrecht; daughter, Lacy McCarty and husband Lance, daughter, Annie Garcia and husband Daniel Casey; along with his grandchildren, Kaeson, Dustin and Raelynn Brazier, Alaina Gowin, Jett and Jagger Gowin, Eliana and Evelyn Gowins, Cole and Mason Evert, Ethan Albrecht, Lucy, Laney and Levi McCarty; and granddogs, Stella, Scout and Luna Garcia; along with many siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

 

Service information is as follows: Visitation- Friday, August 30, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Wallace Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk, TX. Celebration of Life-Saturday August 31st at 12:00 p.m. at John and Renee Gowin’s -1116 County Road 2217, Rusk, TX  75785.