Shirley Fleming Bowen

Shirley Fleming Bowen, 91, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026. Born on February 23, 1935, in Santa Monica and raised in Westwood, Shirley lived a vibrant and active life filled with family, friendship, and the things she loved most.

She recently celebrated her 91st birthday surrounded by family and friends at her favorite restaurant, The Latigo Kid, enjoying her favorite margarita—her beloved “Pinche Perra”—a moment that perfectly reflected her joyful spirit and love of being together with those closest to her.

Shirley was a devoted mother to her son, Steven Brevidoro, and a loving presence in the lives of her stepson, Chris Bowen (Coral), stepdaughter, Alicia Jennings (Roy), and her niece, Cathy McCormick (Pat), whom she helped raise. She was a proud grandmother to Claire Brevidoro Vaccaro (Mike), Marjorie Mella (Jose), Michelle Sandoval (Cesar), and Brett Bowen. Her greatest joy was becoming a great-grandmother to Jade and Ava Mella, who brought her immense pride and happiness. She never passed up an opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren and great-granddaughters.

Shirley was a lifelong sports enthusiast with a deep love for football and basketball. She rarely missed a game and followed seasons closely, keeping up with teams, players, and stats with impressive knowledge. She especially loved her UCLA Bruins, but also cheered on the Dodgers and the Green Bay Packers. Her passion for sports was something she carried with her throughout her life and loved sharing with those around her.

Shirley was married to John Brevidoro, with whom she had her son, Steven. She later married Richard Bowen in 1974, and they shared many happy years together until his passing in 2019. Together, they enjoyed an active lifestyle, including a shared love of tennis.

She maintained a full and active schedule throughout her life, always making time for friends, social gatherings, and the routines she loved. She shared a lifelong friendship with Laura Young, her college sorority sister and dear friend of many decades, who preceded her in passing.

Shirley will be remembered for her energy, her warmth, her strong spirit, and the way she truly embraced life. She leaves behind a legacy of love, connection, and joy that will continue through the many lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 20 at 2:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Memorial Park in Westlake Village. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Richard Bowen.

Following the service, all are invited to gather at her home to share food, drinks, and memories.