Johnnie Dove Gowder, age 94, of Lula, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Saturday evening, February 25th, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Johnnie was born on April 29, 1928, to John M. Dove and Nonie Abernathy Dove. After graduating from Gillsvillle High School, she completed Perry Business School. She worked as a teacher’s aide at Lula Elementary before starting her own successful business, “Lanier Arts & Crafts,” in 1972, where she sold ceramics, Cabbage Patch Kids, Dolls, Collectibles, and Jewelry. Johnnie was a charter member of Liberty Baptist Church in Lula. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Roy Gowder; grandson, Brandon Porter; brother, Ed Dove; sisters, Thelma Benton & Billie Hewell.
Johnnie had a heart for Jesus and her family. She touched the lives of all who knew her with her sense of humor, creativity, and her ability to put people at ease with her beautiful smile.
Left to cherish precious memories, daughters, Grenae (Dick) Thompson and Tina (Ricky) Porter; grandchildren Michele Bruce, Stephen Thompson, Jennifer (Eric) Brown, Dusty (Kalen) Porter, and Jessica (Andrew) Dennis; great-granddaughters Mary Margaret (Jamie), Isabella, Kendall, Shiloh, Macie, Millie, Skyla; great-grandson, Walker; sister, Margie House; sister-in-law, Jerolene Dove; and a host of nieces, nephews & other family members also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Ward’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Robby Williams & Grandson, Mr. Dusty Porter, officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Roy, at Liberty Baptist Church in Lula. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until service time Wednesday at the funeral home.
The family would like to say a special thank you to some special caregivers, Donna Minish, Rachel Jimenez, Charlotte Holland, Linda Reed, Kathleen Martin, Tina Beasley, Shirl Bradshaw, Gentiva Hospice & her granddaughter, Michele, Jennifer, and Jessica.
You may sign the online guestbook or leave a condolence at www.wardsfh.com.
Ward’s Funeral Home of Gainesville is honored to serve the family of Johnnie Dove Gowder.
