Jeffrey "Jeff" Wayne Gowens of Starke, FL passed away surrounded by family at Medical University of South Carolina Hospital on Monday, November 11, 2024.Born on March 18, 1963 in Sanford, FL to the late Elbert and Gwendolyn Gowens. Jeff grew up in Lawtey with siblings playing baseball, participating in the Bradford High School band, graduating in 1981. He went on to marry Claire Johnson Gowens in January of 1988, later having one daughter, Erica Stalnaker. Jeff was a beloved member of many churches serving the youth at Pine Level Baptist in Starke, FL and Grace Vidalia in Vidalia, GA among others. Jeff impacted numerous kids lives coaching little league teams from 2012-2020 and became known and loved as "Coach Jeff". He married Deborah Johns Gowens in November 2014, they enjoyed traveling together, their two mini dachshunds Roxi and Darci, and lived life to the fullest. Jeff was known for being a kid at heart, a listening ear, a godly man, and the best Papa to his grandsons Bradley Ray and Tucker Wayne. Jeff will always be remembered for all the good he brought to everyones life. Survived by his wife, Deborah Johns Gowens, daughter, Erica Stalnaker (Matthew), grandsons, Bradley and Tucker Stalnaker, stepchildren, Chase and Joelene Moody, stepmother, Linda Gowens, siblings, Gene Gowens (Lori), Keith Gowens (Anne), Mike Gowens (Sheri), Kim Hollis (Chuck), Tim Gowens (Monica), Chris Gowens (Natasha), Jennifer Williams (Matt). Preceded in death by his father, Elbert Gowens, mother, Gwendolyn Gowens, and his first wife Claire Gowens.There will be a memorial service to honor his life Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Bayless Highway Baptist Church at 2:00 pm. Memorial Service Thursday, November 21, 2024 2:00 PM - Bayless Highway Baptist Church 11798 NW County Road 225 Starke FL 32091 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Starke 620 E. Nona Street Starke FL - 32091 US (904) 964-6200