Russell Powell (Pete) Gowin died peacefully at his home in Buckingham County on  November 13, 2015 after a seven month battle with pancreatic cancer.  He was born in Buckingham on December 9, 1939 to Frank Harris and Ruby Mitchell Gowin. 

He leaves a loving family with wonderful memories, his wife of 53 years, Mary Helen; sons, Russell Powell Jr., William Burks and wife Leah; and daughter, Minnie Kish Heslip.  In addition to his children he is survived by four adored Heslip grandchildren,  Graham Burks, Mattie Kish, John Addison, and Mary-Sidney Clarke.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Bobbie Dean Gowin and sister, Hazel Lucille Sprouse, as well as his parents. 

Following graduation from Buckingham Central High School, Pete attended Lynchburg College where he majored in physical education and was a starter on the baseball team.  He later received his Master’s degree in supervision and administration from Longwood College. 

Pete was known throughout the area for his strength as a high school coach.  In his 40 years of coaching either football, basketball, or baseball he racked up over six hundred wins and was chosen coach of the year 10 times.  In addition to teaching physical education he also served as the athletic director and administrative assistant at Buckingham County High School.  He fondly remembered all of his former players, especially those who were the real competitors—the winners.  That also applied to his senior golfing buddies at Farmville Municipal Golf Course. 

Since his retirement from public education, Pete served two terms as a Buckingham County School Board member and was recently reelected to a third term.  Pete was a former member of Maysville Baptist Church where he served as a deacon.  More recently he belonged to the loving church at Bethlehem Baptist. 

A funeral service was held on Monday, November 16, at Bethlehem Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery.

Contributions may be made to Buckingham Country High School Athletic Department or to Hospice of the Piedmont.

Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn, was in charge of arrangements.

dunkumfuneralhome.com