Barbara A. (Madden) Gowen

Barbara Ann (Madden) Gowen, of York, passed away on June 21, 2022, with her family by her side. She was born November 13, 1946, in Lawrence, MA, to the late James H. and Marion E. (Lawn) Madden. 

Barb married Richard Gowen on August 26, 1970. A devoted wife, she moved her household around the country during Dick's Air Force career, making friends everywhere she went.

She focused on raising the couple's two daughters and creating a warm, inviting, and very clean home for her family for many years.

Her daughters and husband always knew how much they were loved.

Prior to her marriage, Barbara graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst with a bachelor's in education and was an elementary school teacher. She later enjoyed substitute teaching before returning full-time to work at Liberty Mutual once her girls were grown.

All her life, Barb was an active lady who loved being with people. If something looked like fun, she wanted to try it...even jumping onto a piece of spinning playground equipment in her 70s when she saw her grandson enjoying it.  Though she'd admit to having an "Irish temper," she was also quick to laugh her full-body laugh. Barb loved traveling with family and friends, walking alongside the ocean, reading, baking, and a good cup of tea.

She was involved in her community and took it upon herself to get things done that needed to be done. She was a longtime member of York First Parish Church, where she played in the bell choir and served on many committees through the years.

 
Barbara is survived by her loving husband of almost 52 years, Richard Gowen; daughter Heather Walsh and her husband, Devon, of Darien, CT; daughter Hollie Wolverton and her husband, Brad, of Presque Isle, ME; and grandchildren Jack, Katie, Tommy, and Chase. She also leaves behind many wonderful friends, including lifelong pals Beverly Longueil and Connie Patton. In addition to her parents, Barb was predeceased by her brother, James A. Madden.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara's memory to York Public Library or your favorite animal shelter. 
 

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