John Leroy Bowers

John Leroy Bowers, 86, passed away on October 1, 2024, in Aiken, South Carolina. He was born on July 18, 1938, in Huntington, West Virginia, to Dudley Bowers and Emogene Mohr Bowers Nickel. John was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Edward Nickel, sister Duddie Jean Thomas and son-in-law, Pat Pelfrey.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila Bowers, and his children: Vic Bowers (Ashlee), Robin Bowers Pelfrey, and Andi Baughan (Steve). He is also survived by his siblings Brenda Reynolds and Penny Nickel, four grandchildren—Rob Hatfield, Channing Bowers, Olivia Baughan, Parker Baughan—and three step-grandchildren, Shane Pelfrey, Kevin Baughan, and Zach Baughan. Additionally, John leaves behind three great-granddaughters: Abby, Jacelyn, and Mila.

John was born in Huntington, West Virginia, and grew up in South Point, OH. He attended the University of Kentucky after completing his schooling in South Point. He spent his career with ACF Industries, retiring as Executive Vice President of Manufacturing before relocating to Aiken. A man of faith, John was a dedicated member of both Aiken’s First Baptist Church and St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church.

John was described as a man with endless love for his family and friends, a smile that lit up a room, and a heart that the world could not hold. His relationships were of the utmost importance to him, and he maintained connections with family, friends, former colleagues, and even his high school classmates throughout his life.

For over 25 years, John and Sheila have been active members of the Faith Explorers Sunday School class at First Baptist Church, where they formed many cherished friendships.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to John’s dedicated caregivers—Tabatha Lewis, Sheila Lewis, and Teresa Curry—for their kind and compassionate care during his final months.

A funeral service will be held at Aiken’s First Baptist Church on Tuesday, October 8th, at 11:00 a.m., with a visitation in the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place in Huntington, West Virginia, on Thursday, October 10th. A livestream of his funeral in Aiken can be viewed here, https://vimeo.com/event/4629943/f4010a9dc9. 

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Mary’s on date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Aiken's First Baptist Church, 120 Chesterfield St., NE, Aiken, SC 29801.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801.