John Lloyd Bowen, Jr.

"In the end, it’s the love and moments of joy that we share that define our legacy."

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of John Lloyd Bowen, Jr. on August 31, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on January 14, 1943, John lived a life filled with love for his family, friends, and passions. His unique gift for bringing people together was evident whether he was on the tennis court or at home, where the sounds of jazz often filled the air. John cherished laughter, family gatherings, and the simple joys of life.

A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend, John’s life was marked by his hard work and deep care for others. His passion for tennis was matched only by his love for his two grandchildren.

John was born in Pensacola, FL, and raised in Carrollton Township, MI, where he was known for his extraordinary athletic talents in football, basketball, and baseball. After moving to Phoenix, AZ, with his family as an adult, he developed a deep love for tennis.

John is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sherley; his caring children, John III, Eva, and Kimberly; and his cherished grandchildren, Andre, and Terrell. He is also survived by his siblings, Patricia Prescott, Dorothy (Leon) Burns, Geraldine Walker, Elaine Cook, Paul (Vickie) Bowen, Sr., Jeffery (Gerri) Bowen, Sr., Stacey Bowen, and Brian Bowen, Sr., as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Voncile Bowen, Sr.; his brother, Tyrone Bowen, Sr.; his in-laws, Earl Hall (Eva's late husband) and Eva and Leon Alexander; sister-in-law, Earline Moore; nephew, Marlow Prescott; niece, Jazzlyn Prescott; nephew, Willie Prescott Sr., and other beloved family members.

John, affectionately known as JB, Jr., Bubbie, Big John, King Fish, Poppa, and Uncle John, will be remembered for his laid-back personality and loving heart. His legacy continues through the John L. Bowen, Jr. Athletic Excellence Tennis Scholarship, awarded to high school seniors in Phoenix, AZ, or Saginaw, MI, in honor of his dedication to the sport. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

 He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

For those unable to attend in person, the celebration will be streamed on Facebook Live:
https://www.facebook.com/john.bowen.14418101