Robert Marshall Bowden passed away peacefully and entered into the presence of the Lord on January 24, 2021 at the age of 97. Marshall was born in Winston Salem on September 11, 1923 to the late John Martin and Birdie Hartman Bowden. He grew up on a dairy farm near the Yadkin River bottom in Davie County where he got up to milk cows every morning at 4 AM. He was graduated as Valedictorian of his High School class as well as being president of that class in their senior year.
Marshall’s childhood farm experiences created a passion for serving the agricultural community at a young age. He went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a Masters in Adult Education from NC State University. After college, Marshall began work for the State of North Carolina as an Agricultural Extension Agent. He served the communities of Yadkinville and Henderson – a career he loved and from which he proudly retired with over 30 years of service.
Marshall leaves his beloved wife of 68 years, Phyllis Anitra Collinge Bowden; one son, David Bowden (Donna) of Bloomington, IN; three daughters, Joy Emery (Daryl) of Raleigh, NC, Rose Anne Freed (Ben) of Lexington, KY, and Kathy Alberti (Andy) of Mebane, NC; seven cherished grandchildren; and eight precious great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Bowden Poindexter and his brother, J.M. Bowden, Jr.
Following retirement, Marshall and Phyllis moved to Greensboro. Over the years, Marshall enjoyed spending time in his garden and yard. He loved pruning his own bushes and trees, and he enjoyed providing this service to many others in the community. As a Sunday School teacher, he could be found every Saturday night for years studying to teach the Bible lesson for the next day. But he most loved spending time with his family. Marshall was a devoted husband, loving father, and adoring grandfather. He was kind and generous to all who met him.
A private family graveside service will be held at Forsyth Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bible Broadcasting Network or to Child Evangelism Fellowship.
Bible Broadcasting Network: Please find donation link below. The memorial designation should be placed in the “leave a comment” section; or mail to BBN, PO Box 7300, Charlotte, NC 28241; or call 1-800-888-7077.
Child Evangelism Fellowship – Greater Greensboro Area: Please find donation link below or mail to CEF-GGA , PO Box 4845, Greensboro, NC 27404; or call 816-729-3253.
