James "Jim" Eugene Bowen

James “Jim” Eugene Bowen was born July 14, 1939, in Hawk Point, Missouri. He was the son of James Arley and Irene (Crouch) Bowen. He grew up in Salem, Missouri, and at a young age, was saved and baptized at Second Baptist Church. Jim graduated with class of 1957 from Salem High School. Jim met his wife, Beverly “Jeanie” Wood, while drag racing the streets of Salem. The two fell in love and were united in marriage on May 23, 1959. Jim and Jeanie shared sixty-five years of marriage and lasting memories together. They enjoyed summers at the Lake of the Ozarks and the winters in Daytona Beach, Florida. Jim and Jeanie were blessed with one beautiful daughter, Kim who later blessed them with one lovely granddaughter, Megan. Jim loved “his girls” more than anything. He found joy in the time spent with them. He was a devoted husband and a true pillar of strength for his family. Jim started working at a young age; while working for his dad, he was approached by Farris and Alice Craig to work for them at Craig Distributing. Jim started in the warehouse and later moved to a salesperson position. He was the first to reach a million dollars in sales with Kraft and earned the Circle of Excellence with Alliant. Jim retired from US Foods after forty-three years of dedication. Jim enjoyed making memories with his family while fishing and boating at the lake. He loved watching the NASCAR Races while cheering on Dale Earnhardt. When the races weren’t on, he was watching the St. Louis Cardinals or Mizzou Football. Jim departed this life March 9, 2025, in Rolla, Missouri, with his family by his side, at the age of eighty-five years. He is survived by his loving wife: Jeanie Bowen of Salem, MO; granddaughter: Megan Shults and significant other Luke Lucas of Salem, MO; sister: Susan Swindell and husband Doyle of Warsaw, MO; son-in-law: Steve Shults of Salem, MO; niece: Rachel DeMand and husband David; nephew: Travis Swindell; great-granddaughter by heart: Gracie Lucas; as well as many other nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his daughter: Kim Bowen; and his parents: Arley and Irene Bowen. Jim lived a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be treasured for years to come. He will be forever missed. Funeral Services for James “Jim” Eugene Bowen were held Saturday, March 15, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Bro. Scott Shults officiating. Special Music was provided by Janet Ellis singing “Amazing Grace, My Chains Are Gone” and additional song selections played were “Go Rest High On That Mountain”, “Remember When”, and “When I Get Where I’m Going”. Serving as Pallbearers were Steve Shults, Luke Lucas, Steve Wofford, David DeMand, Brian Martin, and John Gibbs. Honorary Pallbearers were Doyle Swindell, Larry Gibbs, Harold Martin, Tom Halbrook, Junior Shelton, Wayne Sapaugh, Gene Milsapp, and Lawrence Smith. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Jim Bowen to Russell House and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

James "Jim" Eugene Bowen

July 14, 1939 - March 9, 2025