Baton Rouge, Louisiana - "I have fought the good fight,I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7-8

JW McCray "Sonny" Bowden, Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully at home on June 11, 2026,surrounded by the love of his family and the faith that guided him throughout his life. Born on October 4, 1935, in Greensburg, Louisiana,JW was the son of the late JW McCray Bowden, Sr. and Natalie Lindsey Bowden. From humble beginnings, he built a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, service to his country, and an unwavering trust in God. JW proudly served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959, spending much of his service aboard the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea. His military service reflected the sense of duty, discipline, and quiet strength that would characterize him throughout his life. On July 1, 1961, JW married the love of his life, Barbara Martin Bowden. Together they shared a beautiful marriage built on faith, commitment, and unconditional love. Through life's joys and challenges, they remained devoted partners for 56 years, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. Though Barbara preceded him in death, her love remained a constant presence in his heart. JW's strong work ethic was evident from an early age. At the age of six, he began sweeping floors at Middleton's Drug Store. At nine, he took on his own paper route, and as a young teenager, he served as head usher at the Hart Theater until joining the Navy at age nineteen.

After returning home from military service, JW worked for Schuylkill Industries and Best Manufacturing. He later found his professional home at Ethyl Corporation, where he worked for twenty years as a TEL Operator before retiring.

Beyond his work, JW found joy in life's simple blessings. He loved hunting and fishing; treasured time spent outdoors and appreciated the peace and beauty of nature. A gifted artist, he enjoyed painting and drawing landscapes inspired by the many memories of his travels. He never outgrew his love for classic westerns and any film starring John Wayne, especially when it meant sharing those moments with the people he loved most.

In 1982, JW volunteered his time and welding skills to help restore and prepare the USS Kidd for the thousands of visitors who would be welcomed aboard in the decades to come. A longtime member of Comite Baptist Church, JW lived out his faith through kindness, humility, and service to others. Above all else, he was a family man. His greatest joy came from watching his family grow and flourish. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

JW is survived by daughters, Dianna Jones and Darla Hilburn; son, Steven McCray Bowden, Sr. (Denise); son-in-law, Keith Jones; and sister, Linda Hanna (George); grandchildren: Jesse Jones, Benjamin Jones (Kelcey), Ethan Hilburn (Kaitlyn), Cora Hilburn, Daniel Hilburn, Steven McCray Bowden, Jr., and Alyssia Bowden; great-grandchildren: Ezra Ellerman, Della Jones, and Ryley Jones; and numerous nieces and nephews. JW was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara M. Bowden; parents, JW McCray Bowden, Sr. and Natalie Lindsey Bowden; brothers, Ralph A. Bowden and William C. "Billy" Bowden; son-in-law, Russell R. Hilburn; great-grandson, Wyatt Russell Hilburn. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Nurses Sheryl Schaffer, Mark Sanders and Hazel Hoover, respite caregiver Connie Pourciau, and Hospice Aide Shannon Chester for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness they provided during JW's final days. Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 10 A.M.-12 P.M. with religious services at 12 P.M. Burial will follow in Louisiana National Cemetery. Pallbearers: Jesse Jones, Benjamin Jones, Ethan Hilburn, Daniel Hilburn, Travis Bowden and Barrett Dupuy. Honorary pallbearers: Steven McCray Bowden Jr., Cliff Bowden, Keith Jones and Dennis Eisworth. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Louisiana Baptist Children's Home and Tunnel 2 Towers Foundation. Though his earthly journey has ended, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the example he set will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, faithful Christian, and loyal friend. His life was a blessing, and his legacy is one that will endure for generations to come.