Robert McGowin

MCGOWIN, Robert

Mr. Robert Leonard McGowin, 86, of Smyrna, passed away on March 10, 2025. Bob McGowin successfully completed his journey of life. He continually exceeded expectations from his very meager beginnings. In his early years growing up in Talladega Alabama, Dad lived with his sister, mother, and father "in a two room shack by the railroad track". In his early teens he found himself in a little trouble that got him shipped off to reform school. Dad would say that was the best thing that happened to him. After completing high school in Talladega, "Bobby", entered the United States Navy. His tour as an aircraft mechanic allowed him to meet the love of his life, Maureen, as well as completing 18 months in Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze. After completing his naval service, Robert began a career as a technical writer for Sikorsky Aircraft in Connecticut culminating his professional career working as a lead technical writer for Lockheed Aircraft in Marietta, Georgia. His close friends knew him as "Bobby Lee". He was considered as one of the most trustworthy, entertaining, generous and engaging men anyone could hope to meet. Robert was an amazing husband, father and friend that you could always count on if you needed help or guidance.

Mr. McGowin is survived by his loving wife, Maureen McGowin (Berg); son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Diana McGowin; daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Gregory Harnage; as well as five grandchildren: Jeffrey David McGowin, Jr., Melody Lynn McGowin, Molly Lizbeth McGowin, Katherine Maureen Harnage, Jennifer Bennette Harnage; also one step-grandson, Sammy Gress. He is additionally survived by three great-grandchildren: Eleanor and Hadya Kouss, and Rowan Jones; his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and David Cartee; and brother-in-law and wife, Maurice and Ann Berg.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 20, at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Carmichael Funeral Home in Smyrna with Rev. Hazel Glover officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM-2:00 PM prior to the service. A reception will follow the service in the Reception Center at Carmichael Funeral Home.

Carmichael Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

www.CarmichaelCares.com 770-435-4467.