She was born on February 21, 1932, to the late Perry Herman and Vallie Killian Herman in Catawba County. She was a member of St. Stephens Lutheran Church Mo-Synod.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Bill Bowman; sisters, Colleen Bowman, Betty Propst, and brothers, Kenneth Herman and Harold Herman.
She was a loving mother and caregiver, deeply faithful with a thankful heart, and an example of Christ’s love to everyone. The family would like to acknowledge and thank Conover Nursing and Rehab and Amorem Hospice for providing excellent care and lots of love to her.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Kim Long and husband Wayne of Hickory, Kelly Killian and husband Marty of Hickory, Robby Patton and wife Marla of Conover, Jason Patton and wife Lisa of Valdese; ten grandchildren; and two great grandsons. Stepsons, John Bowman and wife Cathy of Hickory, Jeffrey Bowman and wife Sandra of Raleigh, Joe Bowman and wife Jackie of Hickory. Six step grandchildren and 10 step great grandchildren.
A celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Hickory Funeral Home. Pastor David Ziehr and Pastor Shea Pennington will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.
Memorials can be made to Faith Comfort Dog Ministry in care of St. Stephens Lutheran Church MS. 2304 Springs Road NE Hickory NC 28601.
