of North Little Rock, AR
April 27, 1936 - March 7, 2024
Colonel (Ret.) Jerry L. Bowers, 87, of North Little Rock passed away on March 7, 2024.
Jerry was born on April 27, 1936 in Batesville to Laura Hazel McCord and Lewis Bowers. He later moved to North Little Rock and graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1954. The next year he married the love of his life, Mary Ann Ford, with whom he is now reunited.
Jerry joined the Air National Guard and served with distinction for forty years, retiring as Vice Commander of the 189th Airlift Wing in 1994. His family was his greatest joy, but his service in the Guard was a close second. He loved serving and protecting his country and he loved the people he served with even more. Another one of his great joys was being a member of the Elks Association, serving as Grand Exalted Ruler of the North Little Rock Elks Lodge, President of the Arkansas State Elks Association and as a representative to the national Elks Association. Jerry was also a member of the St. Patrick's Men's Club, where he was known for his Bingo-calling skills.
Quite simply, Jerry was a people person. He never met a stranger and made friends everywhere he went. He loved an audience and his wit and charm drew people to him. Jerry loved to travel. He and Mary attended events all over the country for both the National Guard and Elks. They particularly loved Colorado and Hawaii, as well as annual summer trips with their children and grandchildren to Table Rock Lake. In later years, Jerry spent many enjoyable days at Oaklawn with his daughter and son, Jerrie Ann and Alex. He also became a ''Dance Grandad'' and loved watching Alden and Harper perform and compete, even driving to Biloxi to watch them dance. The love for his family could not be matched.
As fun-loving as Jerry was, he was equally kind-hearted. He spent many days helping care for Mary, particularly at the end of her life, but he also helped care for his mother, Hazel and mother-in-law, Opal, as their health waned. His daughters are grateful they were able to care for him as his own health declined. His daughter, Sandra and grandsons, Matthew and Jeffrey, helped tremendously with daily tasks in the last year of his life.
In addition to his parents and Mary, Jerry was also predeceased by his beloved daughter, Karen Sue Bowers and his granddaughter, Madeline Grace Lee.
Left to cherish his memory are the three daughters he was so proud of: Jerrie Ann Williams and husband, Alex; Sandra Davis and Tina Bowers Lee and husband, Jason. He is also survived by grandchildren, Karen Ricardo (Mike), Alex Williams Jr. (Lindsey), Kayla Williams, Jeffrey, Matthew and Brandon Davis and Alden and Harper Lee. Great-grandchildren are Presley, Kinzley, Kamdyn, Kaylee, Kase, Landon, Mason and Levi.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock, officiated by Rev. Preston Clegg, with visitation at the funeral home on Monday, March 11, 2024, from 6-8 p.m.
Jerry supported many philanthropic causes but had a particularly soft spot for animal welfare organizations. A donation to such an organization, or other charity of your choice, would be a special way to honor him.
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10 Condolence(s)
Mark A De Jesus Sr
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Always a smile the very first day on my entrance to my new job with the 189th Supply I I met Col Bowers and I could tell that he was the real Deal . Rest in Peace, real friend
Donnie Sumner
Thursday, March 14, 2024
His smile could light up a room, you will be missed by all that knew you.
Edith Bowers Krumholz
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Jerry was my nephew. He was part of my childhood growing up. He had a very successful career and the love of his life, Mary Ann. He chased my sister and me around the house. My sincere condolences to all his family.
Lee Neil Bowers Kever
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
I was so sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing. Jerry and I were really close as children. I don’t know what happened but after his Dad passed, his Dad was my brother, we drifted apart. Jerry and I laughed about him being one day older than me. My condolences to all of his family. My nephew will be missed by family and friends.
Bill Canino
Monday, March 11, 2024
Jerry was a great asset to the 189th for so many years. He helped the person new to the unit and the commander with equal ease. I was so blessed to work with him as the 189th CC. Whenever I had a problem he was always able to find the best solution for that individual. He had a positive attitude, was always willing and able, combined with a great mind and good smile to make life better for everyone. I was honored to serve with him.
Brooke Barlow
Monday, March 11, 2024
Karen Ricardo,
Your work family at First Horizon sends our love; and, are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers as you honor the life of your grandfather.
Stewart Williams
Monday, March 11, 2024
Rest in peace. I know he will be missed by many. Prayers for all who knew Jerry and his family.
Donna Crowder
Sunday, March 10, 2024
Jerrie, Alex, Sandra, Tina, and all the grandchildren,
I met Jerrie in 2011 when i went to work at the VA. We struck up a friendship and a strong bond that has continued to grow more each day. I also met her sweet Alex and kids and got to know them. I heard about Jerrie’s Dad for many years, but never got to meet him until last week at his home. He was such a sweet, gracious man. I only wish I could have met him sooner and known him longer.
My heart goes out to all of you at this difficult time of loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Love
Donna
Mike Chandler
Sunday, March 10, 2024
He was one of my favorite Officers when I was in the Guard. He was a Lt. then. Great guy, fair to all, a pleasure to serve with!!
Wayne Cullins
Sunday, March 10, 2024
So sorry to loose such a good friend. Prayers for all the family.