A house RESOLUTION

 

TO CONGRATULATE WALTER RICHARD MCGOWAN OF DARLINGTON COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF HIS NINETIETH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HIM A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are delighted to learn that Walter Richard McGowan of Darlington County will celebrate his ninetieth birthday on April 22, 2025; and

 

Whereas, at ninety years young, Walter Richard McGowan stands as a remarkable example of a life well-lived, rooted in faith, family, service, and love. Born on April 22, 1935, in Foxworth, Mississippi, he was the eldest of seven children. From an early age, he embraced responsibility and leadership, qualities that would shape his legacy of integrity, humility, and service; and

 

Whereas, Walter attended high school in Louisiana and later studied at Florence-Darlington Technical College, where he earned an associate degree in business administration. These formative years prepared him for a life of distinction, both in uniform and in the community; and

 

Whereas, a proud and honorable retired United States Air Force serviceman, Walter McGowan served his country with unwavering loyalty and courage. He retired from Charleston Air Force Base in 1979 after a long and faithful career. Yet his greatest acts of service were not limited to his military career; they were shown most profoundly in his enduring love for his family and community; and

 

Whereas, after retirement, he held positions with Fiber Industries, Electrolux, and the Head Start program in Florence, where he helped shape the lives of young children. In addition, Walter founded Mac's Vacuum Cleaner Repair and, alongside his wife, Doretha, owned and operated a family restaurant in Lamar. Their business ventures reflected their shared belief in diligence, hospitality, and community empowerment; and

 

Whereas, for more than six decades, Walter has shared a loving and enduring marriage with his beloved Doretha. Together, they raised five sons and with open hearts welcomed five daughters-in-love into their family. Their love extended beyond their household as they became spiritual parents and mentors to countless others, offering wisdom, guidance, and unconditional support. Today, they are the proud grandparents of fifteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren (plus one on the way); and

 

Whereas, known affectionately as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Walter is also a man of steadfast faith. Long a respected member of his church, he served faithfully as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and member of the men's choir. Though he no longer teaches, his heart remains open to God's Word, and he remains a faithful student of Scripture; and

 

Whereas, in his younger years, he found great joy in life's simple pleasures, especially rabbit hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures with his sons. These treasured moments became the foundation of lasting family memories passed down through generations; and

 

Whereas, moreover, Walter has a special gift for making others laugh, often with a well-timed joke. And at ninety, he's still on the lookout for a good pinochle partner, since none of his sons have yet taken up the challenge. A pillar in his family and community, he is loved and respected by all who have been blessed by his kindness, wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to living a life that reflects the love of Christ; and

 

Whereas, it is a great pleasure to honor this adopted son of South Carolina at the celebration of his ninetieth birthday, and it is a further pleasure to join with his family and friends in congratulating him on reaching this important life milestone. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Walter Richard McGowan of Darlington County on the occasion of his ninetieth birthday and wish him a joyous birthday celebration and continued health and happiness.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Walter Richard McGowan.

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