William Max Bowen

William Max Bowen, known as Max, was born on February 7, 1929, in Campbellsville, Kentucky. He embarked on a journey through life, leaving his mark on all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He passed away on January 30, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky, after 96 years 11 months 23 days.

Max graduated from Taylor County High School and was honorably discharged from the Kentucky National Guard 38 Field Artillery Battery B623 Division in 1948. From 1948-1952, he served in the United States Navy. Stationed in Tacoma, Washington, Max helped re-commission ships for the U.S. Navy’s use in the Korean Conflict.

Upon completion of his years of service in the military, Max relocated to the Louisville area where he worked as a machinist for 39 years at Reynolds Metal Company Plant #5. He was a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO, District Lodge No. 27.

Max was also a member of Life Bridge Christian Church and a former member of Shively Christian Church and Shively United Methodist Church prior to the Christian churches. He devoted his time and skills to volunteer work at each church maintaining the church property and serving in other ways. Max was known by many as “Mr. Fixer.” His steadfast commitment to helping others defined his character. In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with family and repairing bicycles, lawn mowers and guitars.

Max is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Mary (Weatherford) Bowen, wife Naomi (Goad) Bowen, sisters Arlene (Bowen) Corbin and Kathern Bowen, brother-in-law Finis Corbin, and son-in-law Mark Davis. He leaves to cherish his memory children, Cynthia Davis, Sherry Allen (Terry), and Vickie Malone (Paul); granddaughters, Rachel Miller (Austin) and Sianna Malone; step great-grandchildren, Emma Coy and Summer Helmick; step great great-grandchildren, Taylin, Rose, Tressa, Truu, and Baylee; and many dear extended family members and friends.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, in the chapel of Schoppenhorst, Underwood & Brooks Funeral Home, 123 Winning Colors Drive, Mt. Washington, KY 40047. Friends may pay their respects on February 7th from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Life Bridge Christian Church, 8001 Damascus Road, Louisville, KY 40228.