Gladys Fincham Bowen

Gladys Fincham Bowen, beloved daughter of Robert and Lacy Fincham, passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2025, at the age of 91. Born in 1934, she was the youngest of ten children and grew up in Culpeper, Virginia, surrounded by the warmth and closeness of a large and loving family.

Gladys dedicated over 30 years of her life to serving her community as a telephone operator with C&P Telephone Company and later AT&T. Her kindness, professionalism, and steady presence left a lasting impression on colleagues and callers alike.

She was known for her generous heart, her legendary chocolate chip cookies, and her deep love for her family. A devoted fan of Elvis Presley, she filled her home with his music and never missed a chance to dance along. She also loved watching Major League Baseball, cheering on her favorite teams with passion. In her younger years, she lovingly sewed clothes for her oldest children, stitching care and creativity into every garment.

Gladys had a playful spirit—she loved the thrill of bingo nights and the excitement of slot machines, always ready with a smile and a lucky charm in hand.

Throughout her life, Gladys held many titles—daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, and friend—but her most treasured role was Grandma to her grandchildren and Meemaw to her great-grandchildren. She embraced those names with great pride, joy, and boundless love.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 63 years, James Bowen, and by her beloved son, Gary Bowen.

She is survived by her daughters: Linda Bowen, Beverly Wade, and Tammie Bowen; daughter-in-law Sandy Bowen; five grandchildren: Laura DiFranco, Chris Wade (Melanie), Matt Wade (Sarah), Jimmy Bowen, and Kyle Bowen (Sophie); and five great-grandchildren: Tyler DiFranco (Cassidy), Aaron DiFranco, Peyton Wade, Kendall Wade, and Reagan Wade.

Her memory will be forever cherished, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A visitation for Gladys will be held Friday, September 12, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM at Clore-English Funeral Home, 11190 James Monroe Highway, Culpeper, Virginia 22701.

Funeral services will follow at 11:30 PM, Clore-English Funeral Home 11190 James Monroe Highway, Culpeper, Virginia 22701.

A graveside immediately following at Fairview Cemetery, 822 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA 22701.