Ray B. Gowen

Ray B. Gowen, 79, of Robinson, IL, died at 11:20 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at the Crawford Memorial Hospital in Robinson. He was born March 3, 1936 in rural Russellville the son of Earl Gowen & Wilda Kent, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Roy Gowen. He is survived by his children, Greg Gowen & partner Donna Hyre (Palestine, IL) and Tina & Paul Halter (Lawrenceville, IL); five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sisters, Joyce Ridgley (Salem, IL), Doris & Glenn Decker (Flat Rock, IL), and Wanda & Chuck Daugherty (Flat Rock, IL); as well as several nieces and nephews. Ray proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Back home, he went to work for Briggs Pottery as a sprayer. He retired after over 35 years of dedicated work. Ray enjoyed spending his free time with friends at his home away from home, the Robinson American Legion Post #69. He volunteered much of his time to the Legion, participating in activities such as planting American flags along Robinson’s Main Street & Cemeteries. He was also an active member of the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549. His family and friends have lost a one-of-a-kind soul. His kindness, selflessness, and orneriness will forever be remembered. A time of visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 27th at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A funeral service will follow the visitation and will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating the service. Burial will follow in the Derr Cemetery, rural Pinkstaff, IL. Memorials may be made to the V.F.W. Transportation Fund, with envelopes available at the funeral home.