TITLE: In memory of George Herman McGowan of Houston.

SUMMARY: In memory of George Herman McGowan of Houston.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Memories of a life filled with joyful times and meaningful accomplishments remain to comfort the family and friends of George Herman McGowan of Houston, who passed away on April 2, 2023, at the age of 93; and WHEREAS, The son of Samuel O. McGowan Sr. and Berniece Ninian, George McGowan was born in Houston on October 18, 1929, and he grew up in the Fifth Ward; he was a student at Phillis Wheatley High School in 1945, when he joined the U.S. Army and served for four months during World War II; he subsequently returned to Wheatley High, graduating with honors in 1947 and going on to attend Texas Southern University; in 1952, he rejoined the U.S. Army, served during the Korean War, and attained the rank of master sergeant; he concluded his service as a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserve; and WHEREAS, Mr. McGowan enjoyed a 33-year career with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier; he was also a real estate developer, and he played an important role in the construction of 17 Fifth Ward properties and in the renovation of his church, Payne Chapel AME; he was honored with the mayoral proclamation of George Herman McGowan Day in Houston in February 2022; and WHEREAS, Mr. McGowan shared 55 years with his wife, Theresa, until her death in 2006; he was the devoted father of five children, Anthony, Theresa, Herman, Karen, and Nina, and he took tremendous pride in his many grandchildren; in his 90s, he garnered thousands of fans as sidekick "Paw Paw" to his grandson, Chef Kolby Kash, on social media, offering entertaining commentary about their culinary creations; and WHEREAS, Deeply dedicated to his family, his faith, and his community, George McGowan earned the lasting admiration and affection of all who were privileged to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of George Herman McGowan and extend heartfelt sympathy to the members of his family: to his siblings, Samuel McGowan, Carrie Blackwell, and Linda Lane; to his children, Anthony McGowan, Theresa Craft, Herman McGowan, Karen Chandler, and Nina Muoneke; to his 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren; and to his many other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of George McGowan. Dutton Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2060 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 29, 2023. Chief Clerk of the House