News Summary
The United Methodist Church mourns the passing of Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr., a dedicated minister for over five decades. Known for his impactful ministry across several churches and his commitment to education, Al Bowles leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and community service. A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled, honoring his substantial contributions and the deep connections he fostered throughout his career. Friends and family are invited to gather to pay their respects as they remember a beloved community leader.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr., affectionately known as “Al,” passed away on June 16, 2025. He was a beloved figure in the United Methodist Church, serving as a licensed or ordained clergy for over five decades before his retirement in 2009. His death marks the loss of a dedicated servant who deeply impacted many lives through his ministry.
Born on May 12, 1939, in Wythe County, Virginia, to Albert J. Bowles, Sr. and Ruby M. Crigger Bowles, Al led a life dedicated to his faith and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, and his wife Christene Blessing Bowles, whom he was married to for nearly 65 years. He is survived by five children: David Emory Bowles; Dreama Diane Martin and her husband Eric; Christy Dawn Lim and her husband Wath; Dee Ann Cain and her husband Jac; and Laura L. Boyer and her husband John. Al was also a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
Al Bowles’s educational journey began in Wythe County, where he attended Lebanon Elementary School and graduated from George Wythe High School in 1956. He continued his studies at Emory and Henry College, obtaining his undergraduate degree in 1961, followed by a Master of Divinity degree from Candler School of Theology, Emory University in 1965. He later earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Columbia Theological Seminary in 1987.
His ministry included various roles across multiple locations, starting as a student pastor at Dante UMC in Virginia. Al took on senior pastor positions throughout his career at several United Methodist Churches, including North Keywood Circuit in Saltville, Aldersgate and St. Luke UMC in Bristol, Middlebrook Pike UMC in Knoxville, Hixson UMC in Hixson, Munsey UMC in Johnson City, and First-Centenary UMC in Chattanooga. He also served as District Superintendent for the Maryville and Chattanooga Districts in Tennessee.
Beyond his pastoral duties, Al was actively involved in the Holston Conference, participating in various boards, agencies, and committees. He represented his conference as a delegate at five consecutive General Conferences and six Jurisdictional Conferences, and served for eight years on the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, including a term as Chair of the Division of Ministry. His commitment to the United Methodist Church and its connectional structure was unwavering, embodying a spirit of service he often expressed.
A Celebration of Life Service for Reverend Dr. Albert James Bowles, Jr. will take place on Saturday, June 21, at 2:00 PM at First-Centenary United Methodist Church. Friends and family may gather to pay their respects two hours before the service. Honorary pallbearers will include United Methodist ministers, their spouses, and members of the Morgan Sunday School Class. Following the service, Al will be laid to rest at Hamilton Memorial Gardens on Highway 153 in Hixson, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ABIDE RESPITE ministry of First-Centenary United Methodist Church, reflecting Al’s continued commitment to serving others even after his passing. Funeral arrangements are handled by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist.
Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and community service that will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Albert Bowles Obituary
- Wikipedia: United Methodist Church
- Dignity Memorial: Celebration of Life Service
- Google Search: Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles
- Dignity Memorial: Memorial Contributions
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