James H. Bowman

JAMES was born in Prince George County, Virginia on April 12, 1928, the first child of Maywood Epps Gee. He left this life peacefully on September 9, 2013 after an extensive illness. James lived in the household of his aunt and uncle, Indiana and Fleming Bowman. He was reared with their children as one of their own. Meanwhile, his mother, Maywood, worked earnestly as a housekeeper in New York to support James, visiting him in Virginia during the summer. James attended public school in Prince George, Virginia. He left school early to begin a long work history in various endeavors which concluded with over thirty years at The Baltimore Department of Recreation and Parks. James married the late Nancy Smith Bowman. From their union were two sons, James and Stevie. He remained a widower for many years, raising his sons to adulthood as a single father. His second marriage was to Princetta Wood Bowman and from their union was born another son, Shelton. James was distinguished by his slicked back, shiny, wavy, black hair and his stylish clothes. He also loved fast cars and fast driving. He was known to family and friends as fun loving, always ready to party and have a good time during his younger years. His son, Stevie, fondly recalls waking up in the middle of the night with his Dad and older brother, “Juney,” for “Madison Time—two up, two back…” In his latter days, James transformed his gifts of humor and hospitality, into what his cousin, Ella Mae calls, the “Family Ambassador” — visiting the sick, calling family to keep them informed, transporting and encouraging family to support each other in times of need. In addition, James enjoyed being a father, grandfather and great-grandfather — (following the example of his own mother) he never forgot a birthday, holiday or graduation. James professed his faith and trust in the Lord; he watched the “Word Network” regularly and attended services at Southern Baptist Church until his health failed. His memory is cherished by: his loving wife, Princetta; sons, James E. Bowman, Stevie Bowman and Shelton L. Wood; brother, Barry Gee; daughter-in-law, Cecelia Bowman; granddaughters, Niya Waters and Fanta Bowman; grandson, Shelton Wood, Jr.; grandson-in-law, David Waters; great-grandchildren, Joshua, Daniel and Regina Waters; nephew, Brandon Gee; aunt, Lillian James; special sister-in-law, Cora Lee Wood; brother-in-law, Horace Harrington; long-time family friend, Flonnie Holley; and a host of other relatives and associates. “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him” — Nahum 1:7

Tributes

James H. Bowman

April 12, 1928 - September 9, 2013