Lois S. McGowan

Lois S. McGowan, a resident of Goreville, IL, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2003 at 6 AM at the Parkway Manor Nursing Home in Marion, IL. At the time of her passing, Lois had attained the age of 96 years, 2 months, & 29 days.

Lois S. (Pierce) McGowan was born to Frank and Gertrude (Goodman) Pierce on May 16, 1907 in Union County, IL. She attended school in Union & Johnson Counties. Lois was married to Murrell McGowan on September 29, 1935 at Gilead Church by Rev. John Hill. 

Lois worked in Carbondale the first year after they were married while Murrell taught school & attended college. In 1936, they bought a 165 acre farm where they lived for the next 23 yrs. A son, Ward Gale, was born in 1938. They attended Goreville United Methodist Church where they were all three members. When Murrell was called into the ministry, they moved to New Burnside.

Lois belonged to Ozark & New Burnside Women’s Club and Home Extension, and also enjoyed crochet.

 After 8 yrs. there, Murrell was sent to the Ware & Wolf Lake Charge where she transferred her club and church memberships. In 1972, Murrell & Lois moved back to Goreville where they built a home. They had 63 yrs. of a “busy happy life.” Lois was devoted to her family & especially loved her grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

Survivors include: 1 Son & Daughter-in-Law: Gale & Phyllis McGowan of Vienna, IL; 4 Grandchildren: Debbie, Patty, Sandy, & Billy; 3 Great-Grandchildren: Emily, Neil, & Ryan; 3 Brothers: Vernelle Pierce of Florrisant, MO; Ford Pierce of Metropolis, IL; and Ned Pierce of Wadsworth, IL; and Nieces & Nephews.

In addition to her Parents & Husband, Lois was preceded in death by: 3 Brothers: Dennis, Clarence, & Don Pierce; and 1 Sister: Glorine Newton.

Lois leaves her family & friends to cherish her memory.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 16, 2003, at 1 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Rev. Bud McDannel & Rev. Jeffrey Bealmear will officiate. Burial will be in the Robinson-Wise Cemetery, north of Ozark, IL. Visitation will be from 5-8 PM Friday night at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna.

Memorials may be made to the Goreville First United Methodist Church, PO Box 288, Goreville, IL 62939-0288.