Mrs. Jean Pope Bowlin, widow of the late Rev. Lilburn L. Bowlin, went peacefully to be with the Lord on Monday, December 14, surrounded by members of her family in Douglas, GA.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Lloyd H. “Pete” Barnwell, second husband, Lilburn L. Bowlin, daughter, Cherie Barnwell Farmer, stepson, Dan Bowlin, and stepdaughter, Judy Whitten.
She is survived by:
1 brother, Lonnie Hugh Pope of Griffin, GA;
2 sons, Hal (Joyce) Barnwell; Sage (Cindy) Barnwell of Douglas, GA;
3 daughters, Pamela (Steve) Griggs of Greensboro, GA; Dr. Joy (Ray) Perren; Jenny (David) Lott of Douglas, GA;
1 stepson, Ron (Doris) Bowlin of Meridian, TX;
2 stepdaughters, Becky (Robert) Sims of Dothan, AL; Mary (Sammy) Lastinger of Douglas, GA;
A number of precious and loved grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was a woman devoted to God, her family, her country and her community. She considered her highest purpose in life to exemplify the love of Jesus to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, many friends and all who crossed her path. Her faith-based legacy will live on through those who were blessed to know and love her.
Jean was born in Douglas, Georgia on July 6, 1932 to the late Willie R. Pope and Vicey Peterson Pope. She received a degree in nursing from Crawford W. Long School of Nursing, Atlanta, Georgia in 1953. She was active in nursing until her retirement in 1992. Like her mother, she pursued a career in nursing that would include Coffee County Hospital, South Georgia College School Nurse, LPN Instructor, and homemaker. Her remarkable career in nursing was highlighted by being chosen Nurse of the Year by 8th District Georgia Nurses’ Association in 1987. She held several offices in the 8th District Association.
Mrs. Bowlin was a long-time active member of First Baptist Church of Douglas. Her ministry through the church included teaching Sunday School and serving as Women on Missions Director. She was a member of the Senior Choir and was active in the Joy Group. Also, she served on several committees. She was Treasurer of the Smyrna Baptist Association for several years and was active in the Associational Women’s Missionary Union.
Jean was a lifelong avid bridge player as well as an avid researcher and family genealogist. Everyone would call on her for answers to family questions.
She was a model matriarch for four generations. She was a leader who had an ability to move things forward, take control, and show concern for others. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, beautiful smile, kindness to others, and love of God.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, December 18 at 11:00AM at Carver Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Gregory Pope and Rev. William Pope officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, December 18 from 10:00AM until 11:00am at Carver Baptist Church. Pallbearers will be Kristen Griggs Miller, David Griggs, Lauren Griggs, Harold Barnwell, Jonathan Barnwell, Stephen Hammond, Blake Hammond, Will Lott and Allison Barnwell Graham. Honorary pallbearers will be Pam and Greg Bennett, Dr. Ray Coleman, Dr. Romulo Navarro, First Baptist Church Chapel Sunday School Class, and Bridge Club members.
Sims Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity or to First Baptist Church Missions Program of Douglas, GA.
Due to COVID-19, Sims Funeral Home Inc. will require all guests and attendees to wear appropriate medical grade face-masks and maintain social distancing at all times while visiting our facility, and highly encouraged at our services outside of our facility. Masks are not provided.