Gary Doyle McGowan

Gary Doyle McGowan, born on October 17, 1940, in Miller Grove, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 06, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

Gary excelled academically, graduating as Salutatorian from Miller Grove High School before going on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from East Texas State at Commerce. He was passionate about history and geography, which led him to a teaching career at Johnston High School in Austin, Texas. Though he began his studies at the University of Texas to pursue a law degree, Gary's true calling lay in the world of business and claims management. He worked for several companies over the years, including Lone Star Gas, Zales, and NOBÉL. At BFI in Houston, he wrote and implemented a claims department manual which encompassed nationwide offices. But perhaps his greatest accomplishment was being Owner Operator of Frontier Adjusters, a business he ran for more than 20 years before retiring in 2010.

Gary married Laura Navarro, on October 10, 1979, in Terrell, Texas. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Gary was a proud father to his daughters, Rebecca McGowan Jensen, husband Steve, Elizabeth Martini, husband Glenn, Maria M. Tankersley and Scott Duff, Michelle Foster, husband Brian, and Frances Robinson, husband Richie.

His legacy continues through his sixteen grandchildren: spouses and significant others, each of whom he adored: Blake Harwell, Courtney Walker, Bradley Reed, Lauren Zmolek, Rolan Foster, Carrington Brooks, Savannah Patton, Noah Brooks, Bryce Tankersley, Benjamin Jensen, Katheryn Martini, Joseph Martini, Nicholas Jensen, Michael Martini, David Martini, and Quaid Alexander. His family also includes 19 great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members who hold him close to their hearts.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Bascom & Pauline Cook McGowan, his brother Maloy McGowan, his sister Terry Jill Asbill, and Agnes Hester, his first wife, the mother of Rebecca and Beth.

He had a passion for basketball and golf, enjoying every moment spent on the court or the green. Above all, Gary loved spending time with his grandchildren, family, and friends, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for generations.

Gary was an Elder and lifelong member of The First Presbyterian Church of Terrell, TX. His faith guided him in every aspect of his life, and it was a source of comfort and peace to all of us.

Gary Doyle McGowan will be deeply missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and community that will endure in the hearts of many.

Friends and family are invited to honor his memory at the visitation on March 14, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Anderson Clayton Funeral Home, located at 301 W Nash St, Terrell, TX. A funeral service will take place on March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, located at 834 Griffith Ave, Terrell, TX. Following the service, a graveside service will be held at Miller Grove Cemetery, located at 7819 FM 275, Miller Grove, TX, beginning at 1:30 PM.