Paul Thomas Bowen

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the oldest son to Charles Elza Bowen (postal worker) and Marypaul Fleming Bowen (housewife). Paul grew up in Georgia with his family and younger brother, Alan Charles. There were many aunts, uncles, and cousins that he talked about often. He graduated from Furman University and continued on with his education, also graduating with two Master’s degrees from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He met Sharon Gayle Gage and they were married on December 28, 1965. They were married nearly 54 years until Sharon passed in December 2019.

Paul was a strong, but mild mannered man with a kind heart. He was a minister who loved to teach. His sermons always included thought provoking commentary on the Bible and philosophy. He often alternated between being quiet and reserved and discussing at length topics that interested him. Some of our fondest memories include his officiating all three of his children’s weddings. An avid train, music, and organ lover, Trains magazines, pipe organ parts, and instruments were always found in his home, and it was easy to engage him on those topics.

Paul was a minister for multiple churches: Moffett Baptist Church, Danville, VA; First Baptist Church, Frederick, MD; First Baptist Church, Bainbridge, GA; Beechwood Baptist Church, Louisville, KY; and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Arlington, VA. He also built and tuned organs, working for Miller Pipe Organ Company in Louisville, KY. Preaching, teaching, and tuning were how he engaged with others. He raised three children and taught them quiet strength, kindness, and compassion, and encouraged them to pursue their passions.

He is survived by his children: son, Charles Keith Bowen (Shannon); daughter, Alicia Suzanne Bowen (Mary); son, Jeffrey Thomas Bowen (Sabrina); and nine grandchildren.

The service will be held August 26, 2023 at 11:00 am at Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC 28207.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to http://hungryformusic.org, or your local community music programs.