Richard James McGowan

Richard McGowan was my mentor in 1984 when he took me on as a student teacher. Linda Dear also helped me to qualify by taking me on for math instruction. Richard helped build up my confidence. I was a 42 year old USAF retiree that was fully qualified to teach without the classroom experience. I spent 23 years at LHS, and it´s the grounding provided by Richard and Linda that made my teaching a truly worthwhile experience. My wife, Jenny, was a registrar at the school, and she had loads of...

Writing about the impact Mr. McGowan had on my life is both an honor and a challenge. Part of me wonders how he would critique my writing. Among all the teachers I had in my life, he had the greatest influence on the way I express myself.

He also influenced the most important connection in my life: My wife, Kathy, and I met in 1974 in his Lakenheath High School Advanced Placement English class. After our graduation in 1975, I attended the Air Force Academy -- a decision for...

When I joined the English Dept. at LHS in 1980 after nearly 10 years as a Dorm Counselor, I was somewhat rusty. Richard, who was Head of the Dept, took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. He and Mary Margaret became fast friends. I have fond memories of the many parties they gave at their home in Brandon where the wine and brandy flowed freely.
When Richard retired, he suggested I take on AP English Literature & Composition - big boots to fill - he'd been teaching his A.P.E.S. (...

Mr McGowan was a great teacher, realizing that the challenge of his A.P. English class was what I needed to become a better than average student (Lakenheath, 84-85 year). I'm thankful to have known him, even for such a short time.

Mr McGowan was my English teacher at Lakenheath High School England. He is one of only a few that I think about with fond memories. Thank you Sir for everything. He touched so many students at Lakenheath. Thank you for sharing him for so many years.

On behalf of the graduates, teachers and staff of the New York Military Academy, and especially the members of his graduating class of 1966. I would like to extend our deepest condolences on your loss. Mr. McGowan was revered by his peers and earned lifelong respect and admiration of all NYMA students who came into contact with him. His undying support, guidance, teaching skills, and friendship was akin to a lantern in the night. He exemplified our code which many of us live by. May you be...

Richard is lovely remembered in our hearts. He was a pleasure to have known and to have shared a working relationship. We send our sincerest sympathies to Mary Margaret and the whole family.