J. Willard Bowman

James Willard Bowman went to his heavenly home May 3, 2017. He was born January 30, 1930, the son of George L. and Mary Flora Bowman. Willard was the 5th generation to farm at Bowmont Dairy Farm begun in 1839. Willard was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Flora Thomas, Virgie McDannel, Geneva Urban; and brother, Bruce Bowman. He is survived by his sister, Doris Nolley Markle. Willard is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Alice Ankrum Bowman; and his children, Galen Laird Bowman, Sarah Ann; Carol Barba, Gary; Julia Bowman, Kent Bowman. Willard had seven grandchildren, Samuel Bowman, Joanna Shipp, Robb; Christopher Barba, Rebecca; Justin Barba, Kady Grantham, Justin; Spencer Dunman, Logan Bowman. Great-grandchildren are Jenna Shipp, Cheyenne, Wyatt, and Gatlynn Grantham, Isabella and Levi Dunman. Willard was a graduate of Bridgewater College where he met his future wife in French class. Upon graduating from college as a licensed minister Willard changed plans to attend seminary to return to the home farm due to his father's heath conditions. A lifelong member of Bethlehem Church of the Brethren, he served in many ways as Sunday school teacher, choir member, serving on various commissions. Being bi-vocational Willard served as pastor to several congregations - Grottoes and Pleasant Hill in the Shenandoah District; Fremont, Bethany, Ferrum, Boones Chapel (now Lighthouse) in the Virlina District. He also preached at many other churches, officiated at many weddings and funerals. With his interest in agriculture Willard was one of the founders of VAMA records. His farm was selected as Outstanding Farm Family in 1975 and was a part of the Virginia Farm Tour in 1983. He was also active in Mended Hearts, Chamber of Commerce, and Ruritans. Willard always wanted to travel and thanks to great farm employees was able to visit all 50 states as well as several foreign countries. When at home on the farm the Bowmans hosted students from France, Ireland, Kenya, and Russia. They also helped to resettle refugees from Viet Nam. Many will remember Willard's faithful support with the many activities of his music teacher wife. The family would like to express appreciation to the many wonderful doctors and other health care providers in our area with special thanks to Dr. Philip Shiner and Carilion Hospice and nurse Teresa. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 13 at Bethlehem Church of the Brethren, Boones Mill with Pastor Bill Hinton officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 12, 2017 at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethlehem Church of the Brethren, 4250 Bethlehem Road, Boones Mill or Franklin County YMCA, 235 Technology Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.