Arthur Gordon Bowen

ORMOND BEACH, FLORIDA – Arthur Gordon Bowen, age 80, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Born in Rocky Mount, NC on December 16, 1945, he was the son of the late Rudolph Albert Bowen and Emma Belle Taylor Bowen. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Albert Bowen; and sister, Judith Rebecca Bowen.

Arthur was a devoted Christian who faithfully served as a deacon at Tomoka Christian Church. His faith guided his actions, and he lived his life as an example of humility, kindness, and service to others. He was the kind of man who always placed the needs of others before his own, giving quietly and without recognition. Also a proud patriot, Arthur honorably served in the United States Army for 22 years, retiring with the distinguished rank of Sergeant First Class. His dedication, discipline, and love for his country were evident throughout his life, and he carried those values with him long after his military service.

Though often a man of few words, when Arthur spoke, people listened. His words carried wisdom, sincerity, and meaning. Among his family, he will always be remembered for his warm and familiar greetings – “Good Morning Dear” or “Good Afternoon Dear”—simple phrases that reflected his gentle and caring nature.

Arthur also had a dry sense of humor and a playful spirit. A true jokester, he kept those around him smiling, often leaving people guessing whether he was serious or not. His humor brought light and laughter to those fortunate enough to know him.

He shared a special and cherished bond with his only grandson, Dylan, who was truly the apple of his eye. Arthur delighted in spending time with him, especially talking about cars – conversations that brought him great joy and created lasting memories.

A lifelong resident of Rocky Mount, Arthur loved his hometown deeply. It was the place that shaped him, the place he called home, and where his roots ran strong. He will be laid to rest at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, surrounded by family, in the town he loved so dearly.

Arthur’s life was one of service, faith, and quiet devotion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

Arthur is survived by his wife, Donna Bowen; his daughters, Kimberly Rodriguez, and husband Carlos, and Renae Rtizi, and husband Mike; grandson, Dylan Cousins; his sisters, Joan Linda Bowen, Janice Carol Bowen, and Debra Lynn Bowen; and his five fur babies that he loved dearly, Layla, Bella, Babyboy, Oliver and Daisy.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, 4454 Dortches Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC, with Pastor C.J. Cauble officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Home.

Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting wwwjohnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.