Cherylyn Jeanette "CJ" Gowans

Cherylyn "CJ" Jeanette Stinson Bookman Gowans was born on May 30, 1956, in Dallas, Texas, to Wilma M. Bennett and the late Royal Stinson. A proud Dallas native, Cherylyn was educated in the Dallas Independent School District and built a life rooted in family, strong convictions, and an unapologetically bold spirit.

At an early age, Cherylyn was baptized at Bethany Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, beginning a lifelong connection to her faith and community. She later became a member of Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where she worshipped faithfully.

She dedicated 25 years of service to The Dallas Morning News, where she was known for her reliability and straight-shooting honesty. Beyond her professional life, Cherylyn found great joy in the simple pleasures-most notably, her love the Dallas Cowboys, books and her remarkable talent for nurturing plants. With a true green thumb, she cultivated a home filled with life and beauty, growing plants of every variety with care and pride.

She leaves to cherish her memory her lifelong love of 57 years, Gerry W. Gowans; her beloved mother, Wilma M. Bennett; her brother, Ronald W. Stinson (Hiweeda); her sister, Gwendolyn M. Bennett; her daughter, Cicely J. Stinson; her son, Cedric J. Stinson; her cherished grandchildren, Calier J. Stinson and Camille J. Stinson; and a host of relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Cherylyn's life was marked by quiet strength, gentle grace, and a deep, abiding love for those around her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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