Thomas Francis McGowan

Thomas Francis McGowan, III, 62
Thomas Francis McGowan, III, of Okeechobee, Florida, passed away on October 12, 2025. He was born on January 5, 1963, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Tom was a devoted father, grandfather, and craftsman. He found joy in woodworking and in the simple happiness of making his grandchildren smile. Those who knew Tom will remember him as easygoing, kind, intelligent, and deeply caring-a man whose quiet wisdom and love of life inspired everyone around him.
Tom was a civil engineer whose career spanned over three decades across Central and South Florida. His work touched thousands of projects through both direct involvement and consultation, shaping communities throughout the region. Among his many contributions, he played a notable role in helping design the plan to raise the city of Miami, ensuring its resilience against rising ocean levels. From schools and roads to sewage systems and urban infrastructure, his expertise and dedication left a lasting mark on the places he served.
Mr. McGowan was preceded in death by his wife, Marcia B. McGowan; and father, Thomas F. McGowan, Jr.
He is survived by his sons, T. Zachary McGowan (Cat C. McGowan) and J. Carey Daniel (Lyndsay DeLargy); his beloved grandchildren, T. Ryan McGowan, Pandora J. McGowan, Faith A. Delargy, and D. Lane DeLargy, whom he loved as his own; mother, Susan E. McGowan; sisters, Deb McGowan (Kris Voelker), Joan Szabo (Bob Szabo), Michele Toomey (Matt Toomey), Mary Winters (Jeff Winters), and Martha Geraci; in-laws, J.C. Bass and JoAnne Bass; and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until service at 11 a.m. Monday, October 20, 2025 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Basinger Cemetery.
Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com
All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.