J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Homes

Bowden, Donald R.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Donald R. Bowden, 69, left this earthly home on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 after a courageous fight with cancer. Born October 15, 1938 to Nellie Boyette Bowden and her husband Herman W. Bowden, Donald began a long and rich life in southern Isle of Wight County. He attended Tucker Swamp Baptist Church and was baptized at the age of 12, reading the entire Bible that year. He grew up entrenched in the lifestyle that rural life affords, swimming and fishing in the Blackwater River, playing with the neighborhood kids and forming rich friendships. Of special note was Jesse Uzzell who grew up with Donald in the Zuni area. Through "thick and thin", they were lifelong friends. Beginning with local pick-up ballgames, Donald became a well-known athlete, excelling in high school in all three sports. His senior year, he scored the most TD's in football, had the highest batting average in baseball, and averaged most points per game in basketball. He forfeited a football scholarship to marry the love of his life, Margaret Keeter Bowden, affectionately known as "Kakie". They celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary this past June. From that union came two children, Kathy B. Mayville and Phillip H. Bowden, and eventually daughter-in-law Julie G. Bowden and grandchildren Kasey Lee Mayville, Phillip Trent Mayville and Phillip Lee Bowden. He also enjoyed his beloved dog, "Mick".
Donald's interest in sports never waned as he continued playing softball and coaching Little League baseball. He used his interest, passion and competitive spirit in sports to enrich the lives of neighborhood children.
Donald was also very active in the Windsor Jaycees, being a charter member and local president. Under his leadership, the local chapter was voted the Outstanding Chapter and Donald was voted the Outstanding Jaycee of the Year. His community contributions were greatly appreciated.
Donald worked at Newport News Shipyard for 43 years, only missing one day and one hour his entire career. In later years he especially enjoyed the friendship of James Foster, James Robert Cobb, and Billy Umphlette. They were sometimes called the "Four Musketeers". After retirement, Donald could often be found at Walters Outdoor Power Equipment, where he enjoyed helping out with his friend and co-worker Ted Herrala and his son, Bret.
Donald loved his home and he loved this area. He appreciated his past, valued his family and friends and felt that he grew up at the "best time in the world". His presence, his life, and all that he was will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of Donald's life will be held on Friday, November 16, 2007 at 2:00 PM at the graveside in Tucker Swamp Baptist Church Cemetery, Zuni, officiated by The Rev. Basil L. Ballard. The family will receive friends at their residence and following the services Friday there will be a reception in the Fellowship Hall of Tucker Swamp Baptist Church. Memorial donations in Donald's memory are suggested to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 7 Mill Brook Road, Wilton, NH 03086-0921. J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, Purviance Chapel, Wakefield is handling arrangements. Condolences may be posted on line at www.jtmorriss.com.

Kaki, Kathy, Phil, & Kids
"There will never be another like him".We are so lucky to have had him in our life. He contributed so many experiences,memories, ventures, and "laughs" and these are what will help us fill our void. God and friends be with each of you during this diffcult time. We are Here for you. Lovingly James & Nancy

Posted by: James & Nancy at November 17, 2007 08:48 AM

Aunt Kakie and Family,

My last memory of my Memaw was in your family room. Your home has always meant family, and I can only pray you receive the same comforting you've offered.

Love,

Trey

Posted by: John G. Cobb, III at November 17, 2007 04:30 AM

Dear Kathy, Kakie and Phil,

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time. I know there is a deep hole in your hearts at Donald's passing. The last time I saw him was at a big swimming pool party at Kakie's house several years ago. I can still see him laughing and cutting up. He will be missed by many. My love to each of you. Andy and I will place each of you on our prayer list. Love, Nancy

Posted by: Nancy(Winslow)Cocco at November 16, 2007 02:24 PM

Phil, Terry and I were deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your father. Having been friends with you for years, we have been fortunate to see the strong bond between you and your dad. I have seen firsthand the love you have felt for him and I am sure he felt the same. Please give Kakie and the rest of the family our heartfelt condolences. May God bless you all. Always your friends, Rick and Terry

Posted by: Rick and Terry Jenison at November 15, 2007 03:41 PM

Kakie, Kathy, Phil and family,
It has been a long time since I have seen you all. I see Phil and Julie occasionally. You have my deepest sympathies at this time. I am still in the Zuni area on New Rd. Just about 4 miles from the "homeplace" on Doles Rd. May the Lord bless you all and I know He will comfort you in the coming days, weeks. Stay strong and lean on Him.

Posted by: Ruth Ellen (Joyner) Burch at November 15, 2007 12:34 PM

Kakie,
I'll never forget when I was playing football at Windsor and Donald was always on the sideline cheering us on. I have to admit that when I made what I thought was a pretty good play, I would look for him to get his approval and he always did. All of the other guys felt the same way. Please know that my thoughts are with you.

Larry Francis

Posted by: Larry Francis at November 15, 2007 10:36 AM

Kakie, Kathy, Phil and Family...
I learned of Mr. Bowden's passing from Cynthia Garris yesterday afternoon when I called her to wish Lynette a happy birthday. I had not seen him in a long long time and did not know he was so ill. I just want you all to know that I am terribly sorry for your loss. I think yall know of my "Zuni Connection" with Mama running Wright's BBQ after Mrs. Wright left and went back to Texas, along with the fact that Phil and I went to school together. I knew my Daddy, Garland Whitley, thought alot of Mr. Bowden and enjoyed their friendship, especially in the days when I think they may have played softball toghether. Like I said earlier, I had not seen Mr. Bowden in years, but I do remember him very well and can see his face just as plain as day right now in my mind. I can also remember all the times I used to see him up at Bowden Brothers in Zuni when Mama or Granddaddy Whitley used to bring me in there to get nabs and a drink. I am very sorry I will not be able to attend the services on Friday because of work, but please know that I am thinking of you all and you have my thoughts and prayers. May all of the wonderful memories sustain all of you in the coming days, weeks and months ahead. I know it had to have been hard to watch him suffer, because I lost Mama to that dreadful disease in July of 2006, but rest assured he is in a better place. May the Lord be with the entire family during this difficult time. All of my love and prayers to the entire family!!

Posted by: Glenda Whitley Topping at November 15, 2007 09:49 AM