Elizabeth M. Bowen

Elizabeth M. (Bish) Bowen, 97, of Salem, VA and formerly of Bluefield, VA, passed away on Friday, August 6, 2010. Born on November 29, 1912 in Forest, VA, she was the daughter of the late Elizabeth and Fredrick Mitchell. After graduating from E.C. Glass High School in Lynchburg, VA, she went on to receive her college degree from Blackstone College in Blackstone, VA. As an adult, she moved to and lived in the Bluefield, WV and VA area beginning in the 1930s. Professionally, she was employed as a secretary with the Bluefield Country Club and later retired from Flat Top Insurance Agency in Bluefield, WV. She was an active member of the McGuffey Book Club, the Bluefield Garden Club, and the Quota Club. As a leader in her community, she served as President of the Whitehorn Elementary School PTA for several years, a leader with the Brownie and Girl Scouts, and was the first and only female president of the Bluefield Country Club. She was an avid golfer to the age of 91 and adored animals dearly. She always loved being with people, especially the time spent with her grandson, the light of her life, particularly in his many football activities. Preceding her in death was her husband, George H. Bowen; and many brothers and sisters. Her surviving family includes her daughter, Betty B. Bradley of Salem, VA; grandson, Brad A. Bradley and wife, Kimberly, of Roanoke, VA; sister, Mary M. Boze of Tampa, FL; and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Syed Raza, the caring staff at Richfield, and the staff of 5 West at Lewis-Gale Medical Center. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 15, 2010 at 1 p.m. in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem. A private inurnment will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Florida Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at 4001 E. Fletcher Avenue in Tampa, FL 33613. Online condolences to the family may be made at johnmoakey.com. The Bowen family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral and Cremation Service in Salem, VA, 540-389-5441.