Evangeline Stokes Bowman

Her life’s journey began on May 1, 1935, in Williamsburg, VA. She was the only daughter of the late James and Sophronia Wallace Stokes. Van, as she was fondly known, graduated from Bruton Heights school. She confessed Christ as her personal Savior at an early age joining the Mt. Gilead Baptist Church in Grove.

Van married her high school sweetheart, Charles L. Bowman on June 2, 1957. This past June they celebrated 66 years of devoted love and happiness. Evangeline and Charles were not blessed with children but over the years they shared their lives with three beloved 4-legged kids Candy, Cricket, and CC Bowman.

Although she worked briefly outside of the home at Ball Metal, locally, Van was a true military spouse. She traveled with Charles (US Air Force) to many parts of the world, including Okinawa, Japan, and the Philippines. Following his retirement, Van and Charles continued their love for traveling with cruises and cross-country bus trips with a special group of friends. The couple also enjoyed trying their luck at gaming Casinos. They were always most comfortable with each other.

Van was a quiet and reserved lady who insisted upon a cozy but neat home. She was always proud of the fact that all the maintenance in their home was completed by her. Van was further known and admired as an accomplished seamstress and upholsterer. Among her favorite pastimes, was enjoying several cups of coffee each day while she devoured the daily newspaper. However, taking care of her husband, her Charles, her “Buck” was her greatest passion in life!

She leaves to cherish her memories, hers loving and devoted husband, Charles, one brother, James Stokes, a host of nephews, nieces, friends, and other loved ones.

Services will be held at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 4002 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, on Tuesday, October 3, with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM and the service starting at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow.