Shirley Ann Mcgowan

On September 29, 2023, Shirley Ann (Sparr) McGowan, 87, of Robeson Township passed peacefully from her home at Frosty Meadow Farm into the arms of her heavenly Savior. Born on November 6, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mabel (Lengel) Sparr. Thus, began a life that would bloom and touch the hearts of many.

In the summer of 1951, a seed of love was planted when she met Heber “Jake” McGowan. Their love cultivated in marriage on September 27, 1952, and would continue to blossom for 67 years until Heber’s passing.

In 1961, the couple planted roots at their forever home, Frosty Meadow Farm. Shirley thrived as a mother and homemaker. Together they reared five children who survive her: Robert T. McGowan, husband to Pamela, Carol A. McGowan, Kathy J. Shappell, Kimberly J. Petersheim, and John Jeffrey McGowan, husband to Denise. The family continued to grow as she was a special “Mommom” to 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Shirley is survived by five brothers and sisters: Dawn Guigley, John Sparr, Joan Strouse, Larry Sparr and Susan McMullen as well as many nieces and nephews.

Shirley’s life was rooted in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a faithful member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Geigertown, PA. Her faith was a living testimony to many with her selfless giving, listening ear, and words of wisdom. Shirley was also a Shaklee Distributor and a member of Hay Creek Valley Historical Association where she coordinated the making of Iron-Kettle soup over an open fire for many years.

At Frosty Meadow farm, the vegetable garden was her happy place where she spent countless hours with a hoe in her hand. She was a master at canning and freezing and her legacy will continue as she taught this skill to many. She enjoyed playing cards, board games, Saturday morning yard sales, and the annual trip to Ocean City, MD. However, her greatest joy was her family. She created countless memories with weekly Sunday dinners of roast beef and mashed potatoes, holiday gatherings, and treasured moments at the pool at Frosty Meadow.

The family will receive friends at St. Paul’s UMC, in Geigertown, PA, on Monday, October 9, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm and Tuesday, October 10 from 9:30 – 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life worship service will be held on October 10th at 11:00 am with a graveside gathering at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Paul’s UMC. To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.GroffEckenroth.com Arrangements by the Eckenroth Funeral Home, Terre Hill, PA

Please honor this humble woman by being rooted in your faith, honoring your family, working hard, and planting seeds of love and kindness.