John Melvin Bowen Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mr. John Bowen Jr., a beloved husband, father, and friend, who left this world on September 6, 2025, at the age of 77 while surrounded by family.

A visitation honoring John will be held Monday, September 8, 2025, at Ray Funeral Home from 12-1 with a Celebration of Life Service following at 1:00PM at Ray Funeral Home. A Graveside Service will proceed in the North Cleveland Cemetery.

John was born on January 22, 1948, in Cleveland, Mississippi, to John Melvin Bowen Sr. and Evie Lee Watfford Bowen. He was a proud member of the community, having grown up in the Mississippi Delta and graduated from Greenville High School there. John found his soulmate on a bicycle in Linda Joyce Gilbert, and they have shared a beautiful marriage that has lasted over 50 years, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Together, they built a life in Skene, Mississippi, where they nurtured their family and created countless cherished memories. John was a lifelong member of Skene Baptist Church where he enjoyed serving and fellowshipping with family and friends. Throughout his life, John owned and operated his own company operating a tract hoe. After dedicating many years of hard work, he decided to join Triple Run Farm and continued his passion operating on a track hoe for many years until retiring, where his strong work ethic and commitment to service was evident in all he did. In John’s spare time he loved, hunting, fishing and most the time you could find him surrounded by family watching racing. Most of all John enjoyed being with his family and watching his grandkids playing ball. John’s greatest treasure in life was the love for his wife, children, and family. John always prioritized their happiness, ensuring that they felt cherished and supported.

John is preceded in passing by his parents, John Sr. & Evie Lee Bowen, and his daughter, Melinda Bowen

John is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Linda Bowen of skene, MS. his children, Sheila Ladner of Cleveland, MS, Lisa Bowen of Byhalia, MS, Michael (Sheila) Bowen of Boyle, MS., 10 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren. His siblings, Joyce Turneer of Greenville, MS, James C. Bowen of Sunflower, MS, and Sandra Bowen of Oklahoma.