Rev. William M. Gow, Jr., 92, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Monday, March 30, 2026.
Bill was born on August 16, 1933 in Clifton, NJ, son of the late William M. Sr. and Lena Gow. He graduated from military high school in 1951 and went on to earn a B.S. degree in Christian education from Bloomfield College in 1955. He then went on to Crozier Theological Seminary, receiving his Masters of Divinity degree, and in 1958, he was ordained as an American Baptist Minister.
Bill married Vivian J. Abercrombie on June 14, 1958, and they were a strong team throughout his ministerial career. Together, they served churches in Kingston, NY, Pittsburgh, PA, Trenton, NJ, Cheektowaga, Batavia and Cassadaga until his retirement. After his retirement, Bill enjoyed his get-togethers with friends at "Grandma's Kitchen" for coffee and some lively discussions!
Bill and Viv were married 52 years prior to her passing in 2010. Survivors include their daughters, Debbie Gow, Ruth (Mike) Lee and Kathy Saile; grandchildren, Carissa Saile, Jessica (Jimmy) Maskell, Megan (Jayvon Cherry) and Rebecca (Mike) Alvut, Kristen Lee, Adam Lee and Jenna Lee; great-grandchildren, Elijah Saile; Bailey, Sophie and Collin Maskell; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Vivian, Bill is predeceased by his son-in-law, Joseph Saile; and sisters, Mildred Meenan and Peggy Ellis.
A committal service and burial were held on Friday, April 3 at 1:00 PM in Cassadaga Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Chautauqua County & Palliative Care or the Alzheimer's Association of WNY.
Arrangements are by the Jordan Funeral Home, 6 Parkway Drive in Sinclairville.
