Baton Rouge, Louisiana - On Friday, July 31, 2026, Deacon Joe Louis Bowie, affectionately known as "JB Joe Boy," peacefully answered God's call from labor to reward. Surrounded by the love of family and sustained by an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, he departed this earthly life to enter his eternal home.

Born on August 2, 1942, to the late David and Elizer Bowie, Joe Louis Bowie was a man whose life reflected faith, integrity, service, and devotion. He received his early education in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and proudly graduated from Scotlandville Senior High School.

At an early age, Joe accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized into the body of Christ. He remained a faithful and dedicated member of Greater New Galilee Baptist Church, where he faithfully served under the leadership of Dr. Mark A. Litt, Sr. For more than fifty years, he served as an ordained deacon, ministering with humility and compassion. His love for worship was evident through his participation in the Mass Choir and Male Chorus, as well as his faithful service in numerous other church ministries.

Joe was known for his impeccable style, warm smile, and gentle spirit. A debonair, well-groomed gentleman, he carried himself with dignity and grace. He possessed a generous heart, a quiet strength, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. Family and friends admired him not only for his character but also for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support.

He shared a beautiful and enduring marriage with his beloved wife, Gloria Dean Dunn Bowie. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and family, raising their children and cherishing the blessings of their grandchildren. His greatest joy was spending time with those he loved and creating lasting memories that will forever be treasured.

Joe dedicated many years to his professional career, faithfully serving Exxon Refinery for thirty years before retiring. Never one to shy away from hard work, he continued his career with Viking Distributions, where he worked as a truck driver for an additional sixteen years. His strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Although his earthly journey has ended, Deacon Joe Louis Bowie's legacy of faith, service, love, and leadership lives on in the countless lives he touched. His memory will forever inspire those who knew him to walk in faith, love deeply, serve faithfully, and trust God completely.

He fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. His life stands as a testament to God's goodness, and his legacy will continue to shine through generations to come.

"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day..." — 2 Timothy 4:6-8