Rev. William M. Gow Jr

Bill was born Aug. 16, 1933, in Clifton, NJ, son of the late William M. Sr and Lena Gow. Bill 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. 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, NY; Batavia, NY; and Cassadaga, NY 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 pre-deceased by his son-in-law, Joseph Saile, sisters, Mildred Meenan & Peggy Ellis.

A committal service and burial will be held this Friday, April 3 2026 at 1 pm, in Cassadaga Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Chautauqua County or Alzheimer’s Association of WNY.

Arrangements by Jordan Funeral Home, Sinclairville. Condolences at jordansinclairville.com.