Billy Ray Gowen

Billy Ray Gowen, 75 years old, passed away at his home in Albuquerque, NM on Friday, March 12, 2021.

Billy was born and raised in Missouri. At the age of 17, Billy married his high school sweetheart, Jean Dickerson. During this time Billy also enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving overseas in the Vietnam War.  After serving his 4 year enlistment with the Marine Corps Billy joined the U.S Air Force.  After serving for 20 years he retired. After he retired from the Air Force he enjoyed a 20 year career in Civil Service.

Billy is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years, Jean; his two daughters, Marla and Lisa; and his grandchildren, Ryan and Jessana.  Billy is also survived by his sisters, Wanda of Dexter, MO, Donna and her husband Alan of Tucson, AZ and Paula and her husband Don of Tucson, AZ; as well as many nieces and nephews. Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Beatrice Gowen; and brother-in-law, Charles (Wanda's husband).

A Visitation will be held, Thursday, March 25th, 2021 at Rainey-Mathis Funeral Home, Dexter, MO from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. with funeral services following from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Billy will be laid to rest at the State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield, MO.