Elmer Eugene “Gene” Gower, Jr., 83, of Gassaway, passed away on Monday, May 22, 2023 at West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility, Clarksburg.

He was born in Troy, WV on July 21, 1939 to the late Elmer Eugene Gower, Sr. and Sally Pearl Summerfield Gower.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Barbara Idleman Gower; and sisters, Juanita Moore and Hilda Beamer.

Gene worked as a Compressor Station Operator for Equitable Gas and he retired with 33 years service.  He was a member and former deacon at Gassaway Baptist Church.  When his wife was living he enjoyed traveling and spending time with her.  Gene grew several big gardens around their home.  Hunting and fishing were two of his favorite pastimes. He made several trips to Canada fishing with the “guys” in his family. He will be deeply missed.

Gene is survived by his son, Jeff Gower and wife, Alecia, of Conroe, Texas; daughter, Robin Woodford and husband, John, of Flemington, WV; grandchildren, Jamie Taylor and husband, Jesse, of Conroe, TX, Derek Woodford and wife, Sarah, of Morgantown, Drew Woodford and wife, Ashley of King George, Virginia, and Kylie Woodford of Barboursville; great grandchildren, Elijah Woodford, Josiah Woodford, Emery Woodford, and Casey Taylor; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 P.M. Friday, May 26, 2023 at Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway

His funeral service will be 11 A.M. Saturday, May 27^th at the funeral home with Pastor Mark Stump officiating.

Interment will follow in the Seventh Day Baptist Church Cemetery, Lost Creek, West Virginia.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Gassaway Baptist Church, P.O. Box 128, Gassaway, WV  26624.

Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.