Tony McGowan

With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and cherished member of the community, Tony Mark McGowan, born on October 20, 1941, in Saint Jo, Texas. His unwavering love extended to his devoted wife, Lou Ann Conlee McGowan, whom he married in a beautiful ceremony on July 6, 1974, in Brownfield, Texas.

Tony's life was a testament to dedication and service, as evidenced by his military service with the U.S. Army and the Air Force Guard, where he was a valued member of the 77th Army Band in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, and the Air Force Guard Band in Grand Prairie, Texas. Beyond his military contributions, Tony also shared his musical talents and teaching expertise in various educational settings across New Mexico and Texas, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues.

His commitment to his faith was unwavering, as a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in Tahoka, Texas, where he served as a Certified Lay Speaker and Minister, and Music Director. Tony's passion for music extended far beyond his professional life, as he found solace and joy in the Scottish bagpipes and attending concerts, particularly those by the Gaithers.

Throughout his life, Tony found immense happiness in simple pleasures, such as spending holidays with his family, gardening, traveling for band trips, decorating for Christmas, and embracing the outdoors. Upon retirement, Tony and Lou Ann settled in Tahoka, where they continued to share their musical talents with Grace Community Church and the local community, further cementing their legacy of service and goodwill.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Farrell Edward McGowan and Catherine Macolene Harwood, and brothers, Billy Farrell McGowan and David Hardwood McGowan.

Tony will be dearly missed by his surviving family members, including his wife Lou Ann, and his nieces, nephews, and extended relatives and friends who were touched by his kindness and generosity.

May Tony Mark McGowan's legacy of love, faith, and music continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest peacefully, dear Tony, and may your melody resonate in the hearts of those you've touched forevermore.