Johnnie Dove Gowder

Johnnie Dove Gowder, age 94 of Lula entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Saturday evening, February 25th, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Johnnie was born on April 29, 1928, to John M. Dove and Nonie Abernathy Dove. After graduating from Gillsvillle High School she completed Perry Business School. She worked as a teacher's aide at Lula Elementary, before starting her own successful business, "Lanier Arts & Crafts," in 1972, where she sold ceramics, Cabbage Patch Kids, Dolls, Collectibles and Jewelry.  Johnnie was a charter member of Liberty Baptist Church in Lula. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Roy Gowder; grandson, Brandon Porter; brother, Ed Dove; sisters, Thelma Benton & Billie Hewell.

Johnnie had a heart for Jesus and her family. She touched the lives of all who knew her with her sense of humor, creativity and her ability to put people at ease with her beautiful smile.

Left to cherish precious memories, daughters, Grenae (Dick) Thompson and Tina (Ricky) Porter; grandchildren, Michele Bruce, Stephen Thompson, Jennifer (Eric) Brown, Dusty (Kalen) Porter and Jessica (Andrew) Dennis; great-granddaughters, Mary Margaret (Jamie), Isabella, Kendall, Shiloh, Macie, Millie, Skyla; great grandson, Walker; sister, Margie House; sister-in-law, Jerolene Dove; and a host of nieces, nephews & other family members also survive.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday March 1, 2023, at Ward's Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Robby Williams & Grandson, Mr. Dusty Porter officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Roy at Liberty Baptist Church in Lula. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until service time Wednesday at the funeral home.

The family would like to say a special thank you to some special caregivers, Donna Minish, Rachel Jimenez, Charlotte Holland, Linda Reed, Kathleen Martin, Tina Beasley, Shirl Bradshaw, Gentiva Hospice & her granddaughter, Michele, Jennifer and Jessica.
 
You may sign the online guestbook or leave a condolence at www.wardsfh.com. Ward's Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Johnnie Dove Gowder.

Ward's Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Gainesville. "A Family Funeral Home".