Aubrey Hershel Bowlus Jr.

Aubrey Hershel Bowlus, Jr., age 80, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, music, hard work, and love for his family and friends. He was born on November 6, 1945 to his parents, Aubrey Hershel Bowlus, Sr. and Edna Bowlus, in Beaumont, Texas.

After graduating from Hillsborough High School in Florida, he resumed his education at Trinity College in Tampa, Florida, where he performed with a singing group. He was then drafted into the Army for a short time before returning home to care for his parents. He worked for 20 years at Bacon’s Department Store Warehouse before continuing his career with Haverty's, Dillard’s, and then Home Depot part time until his retirement. His greatest passion, however, was sharing the Gospel through music. A gifted gospel singer, Aubrey performed with several groups over the years, including The Continental Singers, The Tribunes, The Rebels, London Parris & The Apostles, Gospel Truth. Aubrey devoted much of his life to serving others through both his work and his ministry.

It was on a church cruise aboard the Emerald Seas that Aubrey met the love of his life, JoAnn. They were married in Kauai, Hawaii, and shared 52 wonderful years together, along with their two loving children.

Aubrey loved the Lord above all else and found joy in singing gospel music. He never met a stranger and was known for socializing with neighbors, lending a helping hand, and making everyone feel welcome. He took great pride in caring for his yard, enjoyed working outdoors and by the pool, and cherished spending time at the home he was so proud of with those he loved. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, kind heart, generous spirit, and the joyful voice with which he praised the Lord. His life touched countless people, and his memory will continue to be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ronnie D. Bowlus and his wife Polly; and his sister, Mary Anne Davis and her husband Mel.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, JoAnn Bowlus; his son, Jason Bowlus (Christie); his daughter, Debbie Brown (Damien); his grandchildren, Alex Brown, Evie Bowlus, and Liam Bowlus; his nephews, Greg and Grant Bowlus; as well as many extended family members, friends, neighbors, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will miss him dearly.

A visitation for Aubrey will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Evergreen Funeral Home in Louisville, Kentucky from 4:00PM to 8:00PM. A funeral service will be held the following day, Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Evergreen Funeral Home in Louisville, Kentucky beginning at 11:30AM. He will be laid to rest in Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central located at 2501 N. Dixie Blvd, Radcliff, KY 40160.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made in Aubrey’s memory to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Disabled Veterans, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the Wounded Warrior Project.