Carolyn Kay Gowder

Carolyn K. Gowder was born on November 3, 1951, to Kenneth and Edith Curtis. She passed peacefully at home on May 1, just as she had wished, in the home she and Gowder built 40 years ago—the same home where her husband and beloved son also passed. While her loss leaves a deep void, we find comfort in knowing she is where she longed to be. For nearly 16 years, since the passing of her son Larry, “Bub,” she looked forward to their reunion. She was welcomed home by her Heavenly Father and, without a doubt, by Bub and her husband with open arms. Carolyn graduated from Tecumseh High School, where she was a gifted athlete and deeply involved in school life. She excelled in basketball and volleyball, earning All-Conference honors, and was active in cheerleading, student council, yearbook, and many other activities—leaving a lasting impression on those who knew her. But what truly set Carolyn apart was her work ethic. Whether she was at school or out showing horses, she gave everything she had. Even during her high school years, when she wasn’t in class, she was dedicating her time to horses, earning recognition as Tecumseh Round-Up Club Queen and competing at a high level. She didn’t just participate—she excelled in everything she did. Though she was offered a track scholarship to Oklahoma University upon graduation, she chose to follow her passion for horses. During those early years, she and her first husband trained horses for others and went on to produce several AQHA World Champions—an accomplishment that spoke to her talent, discipline, and dedication. It was during this time that she had her daughter, Liz. After her first marriage ended, Carolyn returned to Oklahoma with her daughter and set out to build a life for them. It was during this time that she rekindled an old flame with Larry. The two were married soon after and built a loving home together, later welcoming their beloved son. Carolyn devoted 35 years of her life to Walmart, where she worked as an invoice clerk. Her sharp eye, honesty, and dedication set her apart. She was known for catching errors during inventory, often appealing discrepancies and saving the company significant amounts—by all accounts, millions—over the years. She worked under more than one store manager, each of whom valued her deeply and trusted her work, knowing she always made them look good. Carolyn eventually retired to care for Gowder, showing the same selflessness and commitment at home that she had always given at work. To know Carolyn was to know exactly where you stood with her—she was honest, genuine, and fiercely loyal. If you were her friend, she would do anything for you. She and Gowder lived a simple, modest life, finding joy in the little things—especially working side by side on their woodcraft projects. Together, they had a giving spirit and generous hearts, always willing to help anyone in need. Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved son, Bubba Gowder; husband, Larry; parents, Kenneth and Edith Curtis; and father- and mother-in-law, Charlie and Wanda Gowder. Those left to carry on her memory include her daughter, Liz, and life partner, Jess Wilson; her grandsons, Trey Green, Hunter Green (partner Hailey Wiley), and Shooter Wilson; and great-grandchildren who loved her deeply: Bentlee Karter, Rylynn Keithly (“RyRy,” as she lovingly called her), and Kashton Boone Green. Brothers Ronnie Curtis (friend Norma) and Randy Curtis (friend Cathy); brother- and sister-in-law, Charlie and Debbie Gowder; her nieces, Amy Gowder (husband Mark), Kelly Veeley (husband Tom), and Audrea Curtis (partner Vickie); her nephew, Dillon Curtis; her great-nephew, Curtis Taron, and great-niece, Landrey Taron; Kellie Pittman, whom she loved like a daughter; and special friends Steven Jenson and Della Sellers. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Julie with Cohesive Home Health for the compassionate care she provided Carolyn prior to her transition to hospice. They would also like to express their sincere gratitude to Luminous Hospice for the exceptional care given by their nursing staff—Jennifer, Kolisha, Wendy, and especially Rachelle, who always went above and beyond. Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 44909 Highway 3, Shawnee, OK 74801, US, on May 6, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Funeral Service at Trinity Pavillion in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery, 16006 S. Rock Creek RD, Shawnee, OK 74801, on May 7, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Committal will be held directly after from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.