Co-founder of Chabill’s dies Thursday

The co-founder of Chabill’s Tire and Auto Service died Thursday at his home in Morgan City. Chabill’s was founded over 50 years ago and has grown to 18 locations throughout south Louisiana.

Charley Gowland, 76, a New Orleans native and Morgan City resident for 62 years, died surrounded by his family, according to his obituary.

Gowland and Billy Parker founded Chabill’s Tire and Auto Service in 1968 when Gowland and Parker were approached by BF Goodrich about selling tires in the Morgan City area. Gowland and Parker combined their first names to come up with the iconic “Chabill’s” brand.

Chabill’s now has more than 130 employees at locations in Morgan City, Houma, Thibodaux, Bayou Vista, Broussard, Raceland, Lafayette, Youngsville, Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales and Boutte. Over the last half century, the company has also expanded the brands of tires it sells and the services it provides to customers.

Gowland was a member of the Louisiana Independent Tire Dealers Association for several years and served on the board of directors for the last 20 years. During his tenure he served as president, vice president and convention chairman.

On Jan. 1, Gowland’s daughter, Elizabeth Gowland Barron, formally assumed the position of CEO of Chabill’s, taking the reins from her father.

Chabill’s was honored by the St. Mary Parish Chamber of Commerce with the distinction of Business of the Year and also recognized for being in business for 50 years.

Visitation for Gowland will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at Twin City Funeral Home in Morgan City, with a rosary at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will resume at 9 a.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morgan City, with a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Morgan City Cemetery.