Phillip K. Bowen, Sr.

Published 4:07 pm Thursday, April 3, 2025

WOODLAND – Phillip Keith Bowen, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected community servant, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, at the age of 75. Born on August 28, 1949, in Newbern, North Carolina, Phil lived a life dedicated to service, family, and craft.

Throughout his life, Phil distinguished himself as a hardworking and committed individual. He retired from Odom Prison, where he proudly served as a corrections officer. Not one to remain idle, he was employed at Hampton Farms up until his passing. Known for his industrious nature, Phil could often be found mowing lawns—his own or his neighbors’—and spent countless hours woodworking and tinkering with his hands. His skills also extended to electrical work.

One of Phil’s greatest passions was firefighting. A devoted member of the Woodland Fire Department for 59 years, he prioritized fire safety and community protection above all else. His career was marked by numerous certifications, including Firefighter One and TR Rescue. Phil’s dedication was unwavering, as demonstrated by his status as an honorary rescue member. Even in his last moments, his thoughts were with his family, the fire department, and the Woodland community.

Phil also served his country with distinction in the National Guard and held positions in law enforcement with Woodland and several local Police Departments. His deep faith and commitment to service were evident in his affiliations with Woodland Baptist Church and regular attendance at Lighthouse of Hope Church, while cherishing formative years spent in Hebron Church. Phil Bowen’s legacy is one of fulfilled living, marked by happiness and gratitude for the blessings he received. He leaves behind a community enriched by his generosity and love. May he rest in eternal peace.

Phil was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Pearl Love Miles Bowen; his father, Lloyd Duane Bowen; his first wife, Linda Baker Bowen, the mother of his children; his brother, Arthur Cleve Bowen; and special uncle and aunt, Walter and Mary Alice Miles. He was also predeceased by his in-laws, Faye Ray, Mamie “Becky” Lassiter, and RC “Mack” Clark.

Left to cherish Phil’s memory is his devoted wife, Ann Clark Bowen, along with his children, Amanda “Mandy” Bowen Vann (Charlie) of Conway, Phillip Bowen, Jr. (Amy) of Eure, Cathy Martin (Donnie) of Severn, and Eddie “Bud” Granger (Tina) of Lasker; his grandchildren, Cole Asbell, Trey Bowen, Mason Vann, Austin Vann, Taylor Martin, Hunter Martin, Kayla Granger Barber (Tyler), Hunter Francis, Amanda Turner, and Ray Turner; and his great-grandchildren, Brantley Martin, Benjamin Barber, Gavin Sharpe, and Grace Sharpe. Phil also leaves behind his half-brother, Webster Gilbert (Margie) of Newbern; sister-in-law, Brenda Bowen; nieces and nephew, Tonya Bowen, Tina Bryant, Ann Wells (Marty), and David Ray (Lisa), Debra Sumner (Calvin) and Brandy Tinkham (Jason) and their son Colton; cherished fur baby, Annabella; and many special firefighter brothers and sister. He will be deeply missed by his in-laws, C.J., Kenneth, Hank, and Herman Clark, Margaret McLamb, Dorice Bryant, Jane Tyler, Judy Farrow, and Nancy Lee, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at the Woodland Fire Department, 205 Spruce Street, Woodland, NC 27897. A celebration of Phil’s life with a graveside service and fire honors will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Woodland Cemetery, officiated by Robbie Collier and nephew David Ray.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Phil’s name may be made to the Woodland Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 502, Woodland, NC 27897 or online at tmcfunding.com by searching “Phillip Bowen.”

Online condolences may be shared at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Rich Square, NC 27869, (252) 539-1001.