BRINKHAVEN — Irene Bowman, 89, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019, at her residence.
She was born April 1, 1930, to Charles and Gertrude (Black) Smith. As a young girl Irene accepted Christ and she belonged to God’s Church. God gave Irene a servant’s heart, and the gift of hospitality. She served with love. Giving, not taking. Uplifting, never tearing down. Forgiving, not holding grudges. She walked the walk.
She married Thomas J. Bowman June 23, 1946. Family was the most important part of her life. She worked as a cook for Pilgrim Hills Church Camp, where she retired from. She loved her family, she loved people, and loved playing cards with friends and family. Irene always put others first. She truly loved everyone.
Irene is survived by her children, Thomas A. (Peggy) Bowman of Concord, NC, Carolyn (Dick) Miller of Brinkhaven, Paula (Bill) Riley of Danville, Rachel (Jim) Myers of Danville, Nancy (Craig) Clouston of Brinkhaven, Marsha Bowman of Brinkhaven, and Jeff (Debra) Bowman of Danville; 16 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Ann Martin of Mount Vernon.
She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Michael Bowman; her husband, “T.J.;” brothers, Wilson, Edward and William Smith; and sisters, Mary Carpenter, Isabel Abbott and Jane McClain.
A funeral service will be held at noon Monday, Aug. 12, at the Fischer Funeral Home in Danville. Dave Jones will be officiating. Burial will follow in Tiverton Cemetery. Calling hours will be two hours prior to the service.
The family suggests memorial donations to Hospice of North Central Ohio, 1050 Dauch Dr., Ashland, OH 44805, or at hospiceofnorthcentralohio.org.