Eligha Govan Jr.

Eligha Govan, Jr. was born on September 16, 1943 to Eligha Sr. and Amelia Govan in Eastland, Texas. During his childhood, the family moved to Detroit, Michigan for a short period during the 1940’s. At an early age, he briefly lived in Hereford, Texas before returning to Eastland. Eligha was the second youngest among his five siblings. His mother, Amelia, often referred to him as “my baby boy”.

He was a member of the Greater Little Flock Baptist Church growing up. He graduated from the Douglas School of Eastland. He later met his wife, Betty, and they were married on September 30, 1963. After living a brief period in Sherman, Texas, they relocated permanently to Longview, Texas in 1969 along with their two children, Teresa and Michiel.

Eligha was a sports enthusiast and closely followed professional sports. He was a gifted athlete and played baseball, basketball, tennis, and ran track. He served as coach to his son and nephew’s Dixie league baseball team. Music was also a passion of Eligha’s and he listened to jazz and R&B often while relaxing.

With his open and easygoing way, he was a mentor to many in sharing his wisdom and common-sense knowledge. He loved tinkering with electronics and fixing things and showed great persistence in problem-solving and working through challenges. His creative and design abilities are evident from his various home projects.

Eligha was a dedicated “oilman” and worked as a supervisor and pumper at several employers in the oil and gas industry for over 40 years. Companies include Lone Star Gas, Enserch Exploration, and Cross Timbers Organization.

No question, Eligha loved his family and this was clear in his actions toward keeping the family connected. He was the co-founder of the Huey Green Family Reunion which has been held annually since July 1979.

Family members, loved ones, and friends will have countless memories and “Govan stories” to share and carry forward his legacy. He will be remembered fondly for his sense of humor and exuberant laughter. His beloved family members include wife Betty Jean Govan, daughter Teresa Govan Encarnación (Sam), son Michiel Govan, grandchildren Gabriela Encarnación, Eva Govan, and Kai Govan. Eligha’s siblings include sisters Doris Morrow and Patricia Parker and predeceased siblings Tommie Jean Jones (John, deceased) and Raydell Govan (LuBertha) and numerous other family members, friends, and loved ones to cherish his memory.

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