William Vernon Bowen, 71, of Columbia, died on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Born in Centralia, Illinois, on December 20, 1952, he was a son of the late Samuel Kirkland Bowen, Jr. and Ethna Eileen Schneider Bowen.

Mr. Bowen was employed by the City of Columbia for his career serving in a Public Works Capacity until his retirement. He was an avid bicycle rider, frequently completing 100 plus miles per week. For over 20 years, he participated in the annual BRAG ride (Bicycle Ride Across Georgia) with Team Flamingo and Team Occisus Via. Following his retirement, Vern became interested in fiber art and later began taking classes at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. He expanded his skills in dyeing, marbling and screen-printing fabrics and later wood block carving and printing. From using his skills and creativity, Vern won several awards in competitions that he entered. Vern was also an avid reader and had an eclectic taste in music, arts, culture and comedy. He also enjoyed seeing the band Phish with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Anita Lee Bowen; son, Samuel K. Bowen, III (Heather), of Charleston; granddaughter, Eleanor Carlisle Bowen, of Charleston; sister, Rebecca Pentecost, of Lexington, IL; sister-in-law, Kay Lee Brown (Gary), of Covington, GA; nephews and nieces, Aaron Smith, of Lexington, IL, Susan Smith (Bev), of Bloomington, IL, Martha Lee Kliossis (Nicholas), of Charleston, SC, Georgia Kay Kliossis, of Charleston, SC Catherine Lee, of Charleston, SC, David C. Lee, III (Whitney), of Menden, NV.

A celebration of Vernon's life will be held at the home on Sunday, March 17th, from 1 until 4 o'clock. Those attending are encouraged to bring any of Vern's artwork and your bicycle to participate in a short memorial bicycle ride through the neighborhood. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memorials may be made to the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, 556 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.