Casting Nets
Beach grieves losses
Chuck Randle

During this first month of our New Year, we have lost two high profile people on the Beach Harry Gowens and Glenda McCleary. Although two different personalities, they both have made significant contributions to the well-being of our beach community.

When the name of Harry Gowens is mentioned, the first thing that enters the mind of many of us is the fact that the Pensacola Beach Elementary School first met in Harry’s home on the Beach. Throughout the years he has sponsored many fund raising efforts to raise funds beyond the allocations from the State. His fundraising efforts did not end there, however, for he, along with his friend, Wally Pecevich, barbecued many pork and chickens for the Beach Community Church, as well as other causes when requested.

Glenda McCleary was wellknown for her support of many activities on the Beach. The word “No” was practically unknown in her vocabulary. She was always a part of the Vacation Bible School at the Beach Community Church, and all other activities, as well as Mardi Gras groups, the Elks Lodge, and other groups. She loved people, enjoyed being with them, and always brought smiles to the faces of those around her.

Her obituary indicates she was the first queen of the Krewe of Woolyboogers. “To be a Woolybooger you were required to do nothing. Since she did the least, she became the first queen.” We know the opposite was really true – that she was a very active and vivacious resident of the Beach community whose presence and contributions made a difference.

We will miss both Harry and Glenda, but their legacies to the Beach community will live on in many ways, and especially in the hearts of those who knew them.