It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Kelton Dee Gowens, who left us peacefully at his home in Lubbock, Texas, in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 27, 2025. He was 68 years old.

Kelton was born on June 24, 1957, in Crosbyton, Texas, to Donnell and Wilma Gowens. He was the youngest of three sons, a devoted brother to Arvin Gowens of Rockport, Texas, and the late Rick Gowens of Crosbyton. Kelton grew up in Crosbyton, graduating from Crosbyton High School in 1975.

On July 15, 1978, Kelton married the love of his life, Richie Lynn Sudduth, in Crosbyton. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising two daughters: Angie Haney and her husband Steve of Crosbyton, and Erica Gowens of Lubbock. Kelton cherished his role as "Poppy" to his three grandchildren, Myka Allamon, Hannah Haney, and Joshua Haney and his wife Shelby, and was delighted by his great-granddaughter, Winona Haney.

Kelton dedicated 30 years of his life to the United States Postal Service, from which he retired in January of 2013. After retirement, he continued to serve his community, working for over 10 years at Pollard Friendly Ford and most recently as a welcoming greeter at Covenant Medical Center. His friendly demeanor and warm smile touched countless lives.

Donations may be made in Kelton's memory to the Covenant Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.