Brenda Gowen

Brenda Kay Gowen, 67, of Ellsinore, Missouri, peacefully passed away with family by her side on April 7, 2023, at her home in Ellsinore.

Brenda was born Feb. 13, 1956, to Leroy and Mary Virginia (Deckard) Whitesell in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. She married the love of her life, Donnie Gowen July 2, 1996.

Brenda retired from East Carter School District as a bus driver. She loved hunting mushrooms, fishing, spending time outdoors, but most of all being with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was so loved and will be missed dearly by her family, friends, and her four-legged son, Sparky.

Brenda is survived by her father, Leroy; one brother, Rick (Lori) Whitesell; husband, Donnie; two daughters: Angela (Chad) Kearbey and Laura Jean; five granddaughters, Jenifer, Andrea (Zach) Griffin, Jayla, Tori, and Addie Mae; six great-grandchildren: Lexi, Kenzie, Blake, Aubree, Derek, and MJ.

Brenda was preceded in death by her mother, Virginia, her brother, Mike and grandson, Derek.

Visitation will be held from 1 -2 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2023, with the funeral services to immediately follow with David Thomas officiating at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services in Poplar Bluff. Burial will take place at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Brenda Kay Gowen.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.