Born on April 3, 1929, in Hopewell, Va., he was the son of the late Robert S. and Annie Scott Bowman. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Tina Bowman Evans; a son, Robert S. Bowman; and four sisters, Eleanor B. Wood, Peggy B. Haller, Gloria B. Gilman, and Janice B. Overstreet. Mr. Bowman was retired from the U.S. Army, where he honorably served his country, after World War II, helping reconstruct a war torn Italy. He also retired from the U.S. Postal service with twenty-three years of service. He was a longtime member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.
John met and married the love of his life during his service in Opicina, Italy. Many professed the marriage would fail, including his family back home. John spent the next sixty-eight years devoted to Iolanda and his children. He told her everyday she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Their story can be viewed at https://youtu.be/UCzageIerUs.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Bowman is survived by two daughters, Mary Bowman Bagby and husband, Bill of Charlotte Court House and Marina Bowman Pillow and husband, Johnny of Lynchburg; nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; a son-in-law, Roy A. Evans of Lynchburg, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws throughout the U.S. and Italy.
A Funeral Mass will be conducted at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 26, 2018, at Holy Cross Catholic Church with the Rev. Monsignor J. Kenneth Rush officiating. Military honors will be provided by American Legion Post 16. Following the Mass, a reception will be held in the Church Commons.
John enjoyed a colorful and adventurous life, so please, if you attend, wear your brightest colors to celebrate his amazing life and legacy.
“YOU NO LONGER HAVE THE TIME THAT IS PAST. NOR ARE YOU SURE OF THE TIME TO COME. HENCE ALL YOU DO HAVE IS THIS PRESENT POINT AND TIME AND NOTHING MORE". ST-CATHERINE OF SIENA.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Little Sisters of the Poor of Richmond, Va.
To send online condolences to the family, please visit ww.whittentimberlake.com.
Whitten Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Timberlake Chapel is serving the family.
