Thelma was born on October 4, 1964, to the late Mary Katherine Boyd and Herbert McGowan in Flemingsburg, Kentucky. She was baptized at Strawberry Methodist Church in Flemingsburg at an early age. Thelma and her family moved to Covington in the early 80s.

Thelma worked for Storer Cable Company for 16 years. She started in customer service and worked her way up to general manager.

Thelma departed this earthly life on July 14th at her home in Covington at the age of 61.

Thelma was a hard worker, loving and caring sister, daughter, partner, and friend. She was a gentle, quiet soul who loved her Cincinnati Bengals and was secretly a Steelers fan. She loved cooking wonderful and delicious meals for her partner.

Thelma is well loved by her partner, family, friends, and co-workers. All will truly miss her caring, loving spirit.

She leaves not to mourn but to cherish her loving memory: her partner, John C. Jennings; her three sisters, Belinda McGowan, Anna Hatton of Covington, KY, and Theresa McGowan of Las Vegas, NV; her two brothers, Ricky McGowan and Chris Boyd (Dessie) of Covington, KY; a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Thelma was preceded in death by three brothers, Kenny McGowan, Herbert McGowan, and Kevin McGowan, and her sister, Ella Rice.

Thelma Jean McGowan will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm, on Monday, July 27, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Northern Kentucky, 1129 Garrard Street, Covington (41011). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 12:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

She will be laid to rest at Linden Grove Cemetery, 1421 Holman Avenue, Covington, Kentucky 41011.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the McGowan family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the McGowan family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.