

Johnny Lynn Bowen, age 74, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on November 6, 2026. Born June 19, 1952, Johnny will be remembered as a beloved and cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend—faithful in his walk, steady in his work, and gentle in the way he cared for others. His life reflected honesty and devotion, marked by a quiet strength, thoughtful presence, and a generous spirit that left an enduring impression on all who knew him.
Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie Bowen and Dorothy Funnell. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Donna Bowen; his daughter, Tiffany Oxford; his son, Jonathan Bowen; his brother, Jack Bowen; his grandson, Ethan Connor Oxford; his aunt, Waunell Benefield; his cousin, Kevin Benefield; and several nieces and nephews.
A man of loyal service, Johnny served in the Navy during the Vietnam War from 1971 until 1975. He carried forward that same sense of duty and selfless commitment throughout his life—offering encouragement, compassion, and steady guidance to those around him.
Johnny also dedicated himself to full-time Christian work, serving as youth pastor and directing Children’s Church and camp activities at Lupton Drive Baptist Church for seven years. He later served as the Children’s Church Pastor at New Salem Baptist Church for fourteen years. In every role, Johnny’s kind-hearted nature and inspirational example were evident, as he worked hard to support and uplift families and young people with patience, care, and sincere faith.
Later, Johnny became a Bread Distributor for Flowers Bakery, owning his own bread route in Hixson for thirty-eight years. Through decades of early mornings and consistent effort, he earned the respect of many for his reliability, hard work, and the honest way he conducted himself—always willing to help, always mindful of others.
Johnny was a member of Red Bank Baptist Church, where his faithful presence and gentle manner continued to reflect the values he lived by: devotion, generosity, and a compassionate heart.
Visitation will be held at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Franklin Strickland Chapel, 1724 Mccallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, on November 16, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
A Committal Service will be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, on November 17, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services Franklin-Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN, 37404, 423-265-4414.
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