Constance Martin Gorman

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Constance M. Gorman, 86, of Prince George, VA, who passed away at her home on January 15, 2024.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, John W. and Ruth George Martin; her brother, John H. Martin; her sister-in-law, Evelyn Martin; and her eldest son, William Bender Sowers III.

She is survived by her brothers, Jack Martin and Robert Martin (Anita); her sister-in-law, Jane Martin; her sons, Joel M. Sowers (Charmaine) and Chuck Gorman; her daughters, Pam Lowder (Rick) and Lisa Coats (Ernie); daughter-in-law, Darleen Sowers; her grandson, J. Adam Sowers (Becky); her granddaughters, Beth Glass (Robert), Mary Sebera (Thad), and Susan Lowder; her great-grandchildren, Brady Sowers, Charlie Sowers, Cooper Sowers, Wally Glass, Evelyn Glass, Silas Sebera, and Teddy Sebera.

Connie was an elementary administrator for many years but her true love was teaching. Her kind demeanor made her a favorite teacher and co-worker by many. Although she worked in several places, she spent most of her years in education, shaping the future of the children at her beloved Enon Elementary. Even after retirement, she volunteered in the library and as a book buddy because being with children brought her such joy.

Connie was a fantastic cook and meticulously measured each ingredient so that her famous dishes were consistent every time. Although a true southern lady, she loved good hamburgers and juicy tomato sandwiches best of all.

She was an avid reader, and her house always contained a basket of books ready to share with others and a bookcase or stack of books waiting for her next adventure. Connie loved cats and it was not uncommon to find her with a cat on her lap and a book in her hands.

To her children, she was the mom who always put her kids first. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was the keeper of Goldfish, Hershey Miniatures, books and surprises. She invented the "Big Christmas" and always said she was "cutting back" this year. The love of her life was her husband, Jim, and she never smiled so sweetly as she did when they were together. They were a blessing to each other and to their big blended family. Connie's friends quickly became family and their remarkable friendships spanned decades. Whether they were crafting in their S & B club, making stuffed peppers or cabbage rolls, vacationing or going out to eat, the Enon ladies were always having a good time.

Our hearts are broken with her loss, but we know there was great rejoicing when she reached heaven and reunited with so many she longed for. We're pretty sure they're all watching Golden Girls.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 1pm until 2 pm, at Bermuda Hundred United Methodist Church, 2025 Florence Avenue, Chester, VA 23836, where a funeral service is to follow at 2pm.