Gary Byron Rowens, 59, of Lake City, Florida passed away on Sunday,
August 3, 2014 at his home surrounded by his wife and family. He was born in Cheverly, Maryland to Mrs. Barbara & Robert Gardner Rowens and had lived here in Columbia County for the past 22 years. He was raised in and went to school in, St. Petersburg, Florida. He was a caring husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed music, playing the drums, and being outdoors, but his family was his greatest joy in life. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert G. Rowens, and his brother, Robert G. Rowens Jr.

Survivors include his loving, devoted wife of 6 years, Mary Jane McAbee of Lake City, FL; daughters, Rene (Jason) Calloway of Marianna, FL, Sherry (Sean) Hart of Brunswick, GA, and Casey Rowens of Clearwater, FL; mother, Barbara Rowens and sister, Deborah A. Rowens both of St. Petersburg, FL; 4 grandchildren and close personal friend of the family Pastor George Kerce of Lake City, FL

Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 7, 2014 at Hopeful Baptist Church with Pastor George Kerce and Dr. Rodney Baker officiating. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to services (11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.) at the church.
GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 South US Hwy 441, Lake City, FL. 32025. (386) 752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family online at www.gatewayforestlawn.com