James “Leon” Gowdy
October 27, 1939 – July 7, 2018
James Leon Gowdy received his wings on July 7, 2018 in Hillcrest south hospital at 9:25pm.
Leon was the first-born child to James (Chink) Gowdy and Ella M. Harvison-Gowdy, on October 27, 1939. As a child Leon attended many schools such as Pretty water, Mannford, and Sapulpa at which he graduated in 1957.
Upon graduation Leon enlisted in the Navy and Naval Reserve, which he proudly served his country and received an honorable discharge.
After the completion of his military service Leon went to work for Hail co. in Tulsa, OK. But soon assumed a career at Big Four Foundries for thirty plus years as a purchasing agent. While working at Big Four Leon also held a part-time position at Payless Cashways Lumber for many years.
Leon found the love of his life and best friend Sherry Von Harrell. They married and resided in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. From that union Darren was born. Twenty-two years later, Leon received a surprise, his second son Sky was born.
Leon is preceded in death by grandparents, parents (James and Ella Gowdy), his wife Sherry, brother (Don Gowdy), and great granddaughter (Kloe Stroad).
He is survived by his two sons, Darren and wife Carol, Sky and husband Henry, Grandchildren Brittany, Dakota and wife Cary, Gemi Ann, and Cody, and 9 great grandchildren. Also, by his brothers Darrel, Tommy and wife Jeanette, Barry and wife Vickie, and many nieces and nephews.
Leon loved bass fishing and of course OU FOOTBALL. He enjoyed cooking, bluegrass and gospel music, reading, and watching Gunsmoke reruns over and over.
Leon was a very special person, he always found the good in everyone he met. He always remembered everyone’s birthdays, he loved his family with all his heart and loved having family get togethers.
The family would like to thank everyone for coming out to celebrate Leon’s life.
“Boomer Sooner”
Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 with Funeral services following at 10 am on Thursday, July 12, 2018 both at Smith Funeral Chapel, 1208 S Main St, Sapulpa, OK. Interment to follow at Green Hill Memorial Gardens, Sapulpa, OK. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Smith Funeral Home, 1208 S Main St, Sapulpa, OK.
