John Franklin Gowen, Sr.

John Franklin Gowen, SR., 70, of Folkston, Georgia, passed away at Life Care Center of Hilliard, Florida, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends.

Frank was born on March 14, 1956, in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Baynard H. Gowen, Sr. and Willa Lee Smith Gowen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Catherine LaRue Gowen.

Frank is survived by his daughter, Kala Gowen Nettles (Jess): Son, John Franklin Gowen, Jr.; Sister, Yetive Johnson; Brothers Hamp Gowen (Elizabeth) and Bill Gowen (Marylu). Grandchildren Nathan Nettles, Kaden Garcia, Brantley Nettles, Bryleigh Garcia and Cecil Nettles, plus numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

Frank graduated from Charlton County High School, Folkston, Georgia in 1974 and attended Abraham Baldwin College. His work history included the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, White Oak Plantation, City of Homeland, GA and the City of Folkston, GA.

More than anything, Frank loved spending time with his family at Harrietts Bluff, GA. He spent his free time fishing, hunting and doing anything outdoors with his friends and family. Frank had a great voice and loved to sing country tunes and songs of faith.

Frank was a strong Christian man and belonged to the Folkston Church of God. He had a big heart for people and was happiest in a crowd of family and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11 am at the Folkston Church of God, 1004 3rdStreet, Folkston, Georgia officiated by Pastor Rob Gillis. Burial will follow at Pineview Cemetery, Folkston, Georgia. The family will receive friends and family at the viewing beginning at 10 am before the service.

Pallbearers are Terrance Grooms, David Gowen, Greg Smith, Blake Gowen, Kaden Garcia, Brantley Nettles, Nathan Nettles and Donahue Popham.

The family wishes to thank The Life Care Center of Hilliard, FL and Community Hospice for the care and love they gave Frank during his time there.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.shepardrobersonfh.com. Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home in Folkston, GA is honored to serve the Gowen Family.