James "Jim" Eulus Bowman

James "Jim" Eulus Bowman, 86, made his peaceful journey to be with the Lord on January 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was reunited with his beloved wife, Angelena “Angie” Bowman, who preceded him in death on March 4, 2022. Jim was born on December 8, 1938, in Brotherton, Tennessee, a true country boy at heart. He was proud of his roots in the Tennessee mountains and had a lifelong love for bluegrass and country music.

Jim was known as "Eulus" to his Tennessee family, a name that held deep personal significance for him. It was the name his father, Center Bowman, had given him before passing away when Jim was only 2 years old. His father’s untimely death left a void in Jim’s young life, but the name Eulus became a treasured connection to his father’s memory, one that Jim proudly carried with him throughout his life and always brought a smile to his face when stories about it were shared. He was also predeceased by his parents, Center and Velma Mae Bowman, his 8 month old brother, Lewis Thomas Bowman, and his stepfather, John D. Wilson.

A proud Vietnam War veteran, Jim joined the United States Navy at the age of 17, where he served with distinction for 24 years as a Machinist Mate, ultimately achieving the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. He spent time stationed in various places, including Virginia Beach, where he and Angie settled to raise their family. Jim was known for his exceptional work ethic, always giving his best in everything he did. After retiring from the Navy, Jim worked for Anheuser-Busch Brewery in Williamsburg, VA, at the power plant as a Utility Operator, where he continued his dedicated service and retired at the age of 70.

Jim’s life was built on hard work, faith, and family. He found great joy in simple things, such as gardening, fishing, playing guitar and banjo (both self-taught), watching westerns, and spending quality time with his loved ones. Jim was known for his kindness, but he also loved to have fun and share a good laugh with everyone around him. He especially cherished family get-togethers, where laughter filled the air, and everyone gathered around the table to share the famous Bowman holiday meals. No one ever left hungry, that’s for sure! These moments of togetherness, good food, and love were what made the holidays and family gatherings so special to Jim. He loved playing card games, Bunco, Bingo, always bringing everyone together for moments of fun and joy.

He also had a special bond with his grand-dog, Tilly, who was always by his side. His generosity and kindness were well known to all who met him, as he always sought to help others, especially those in need. Jim demonstrated his Christian faith through his actions, always caring for his family and anyone who needed a helping hand.

Jim attended Oak Grove Baptist Church for many years. While his attendance became limited over the last three years due to his battle with Alzheimer’s, he remained a faithful servant of the Lord and a cherished part of the church community.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved children: son, James Mark Bowman (Maria); daughters, Carrie Browne (Robert) and Kellie Williams (Douglas); his grandchildren: Nicole Huffer (Nathan), James Browne (Heather), Ashley Iotte (Jakob), Amber Bowman, Rose Leone (Allan James), Angelena Tobin (Christopher "Zeke"); and his great-grandchildren: Evelyn Huffer, Cameron Browne, Abigail Huffer, Bradley Browne, Madison Huffer, Ethan Leone, Julia Iotte, and Bella Browne.

He is also survived by his very special sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Rose and Jim Weber, as well as his dear and cherished Aunt Catherine Green, who meant the world to him. Jim is also survived by his brother-in-law, John Sofran (Martha), his brother-in-law, Peter Sofran (Katie), and many other beloved family members and friends, all of whom he touched in a meaningful way.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Westminster Canterbury for their compassionate care and support during his time in hospice.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 691 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach on January 31, 2025 from 10:00 AM until the funeral service at 11:00 AM with a reception following the service. A graveside service with military honors will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens 6329 E Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk at 2 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Oak Grove Baptist Church, Va Beach, or the Alzheimer's Association.

Condolences can be made to the family at www.woodlawnnorfolk.com.