Deanna Rae Bowman

for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

Mark 10:14 NIV

Deanna Rae Bowman, 49, was Promoted to Glory shortly after midnight on December 14, 2022. She passed peacefully under home hospice care with her mother and sister by her side.

Deanna was born on October 27, 1973. Her determination and will to live were immediately put to the test, as the family were told this precious baby girl with Down Syndrome would only live a few days at best. At two days old, she underwent major surgery to correct abdominal abnormalities. She would live with the complications from that surgery, and many more, for her entire life. She not only survived, she thrived.

It was in kindergarten that DeDe first participated in the Special Olympics, beginning a career as an athlete that spanned most of her life - track and field, gymnastics, skiing, swimming, softball, bowling, bocce, equestrian - but her favorite was basketball. She was especially thrilled when she could take part in regional and state events. That meant traveling on a charter bus, and dancing at the sock hop!

DeDe was a prolific writer. She would often write in her journal, and enjoyed writing letters to family, friends, and anyone else who made an impression. She also loved drawing pictures and meticulously coloring them in with colored pencil.

Deanna had many ups and downs with her health. She underwent numerous major surgeries over the years. There were many times that her parents and siblings prepared themselves for a final goodbye, only for her to defy medical odds and continue to give joy, love, and smiles to those she knew. In her life she demonstrated more acceptance, forgiveness, patience, and perseverance in the face of pain and disappointment than most of us will ever experience. She was blessed with a simple faith that understood the simplicity of the Gospel - Jesus loves me, He forgives me when I sin, and I love Him.

DeDe is survived by her mother, Rachele Holt Bowman; sister, Donna; brothers, David and wife Cami, Daniel and wife Gail, and Darren; 18 nieces and nephews (and spouses); and 8 great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Ray Bowman.