Dr. Gary L. Bowman

Gary was born in Lebanon, PA where he attended Lebanon High School. He went on to Millersville State College where he played football and met his beloved Joan. Gary graduated in 1964, the same year he and Joan married. The two were married for 57 years until Joan passed in December, 2021.

Gary was the devoted father to David, Gary (deceased), and Jason (Denise). He was the loving grandfather to Jackson, Ryan, Nicholas and Zack and the caring brother to Beverly Smith (deceased), Michael Bowman (deceased), and Jennifer Houde. Gary also had many nieces and nephews who he adored.

Gary and Joan moved to Langhorne in 1964 and Gary began his education career as an Industrial Arts and Special Education teacher in the Centennial School District. From 1969 until 1975, Gary served as the Director of Federal Programs and the Curriculum Coordinator in the Bristol Township School District. In 1975, he joined the Neshaminy School District. In 1981, he was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Schools. He then served as Deputy Superintendent from 1987 to 1992. In 1992, he became the District’s Superintendent and served in that capacity until he retired in 2002. After “retiring” in 2002, Gary became an assistant professor at Gwynedd Mercy College where he taught graduate classes.

Subsequent to graduating from Millersville State College, Gary earned a Masters of Education from Trenton State College, Principal/Superintendent Certifications from Bucknell University, and a Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University.

Gary was known throughout his community as someone who genuinely cared about the welfare of others. He had time for everyone, knew everyone’s name and treated everyone with kindness and respect. If there was something he could do to improve your day, he would find a way to make it happen. Gary played a significant role on several countywide agencies and non-profit boards. He worked hard to forge key relationships among Bucks County schools, businesses, Chambers of Commerce, and government agencies. Both he and Joan served as members of Council for their church - St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church. Gary also served on the boards of the United Way of Bucks County, Feasterville Rotary Club, Boy Scouts of America, Children’s Cultural Center, Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce, and the Township Library of Lower Southampton. He also facilitated a Violence Prevention Strategic Plan for the Bucks County Commissioners and a strategic plan for the Bucks County Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. He was also a member of the Masons, Newtown Lodge No. 427.

In recognition for his leadership and significant community service, Gary received numerous awards, including the Special Services to the Community Award from the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators, the PMEA Outstanding Superintendent Award, and the Dr. Stanton Kelton Award from the United Way.

Gary’s commitment to serving his community was only surpassed by his devotion to Joan, his family and friends. Gary enjoyed traveling, golfing, camping, fishing and spending time on Long Beach Island.

Family and friends are invited to visit with Gary’s family on Monday, April 22, 2024 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 65 E. Street Road, Feasterville from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at the same location from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A service to celebrate Gary’s life will follow. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Neshaminy Education Foundation (Dr. Gary L. Bowman Memorial). https://givebutter.com/vp85B1