JD Bowman, Jr.

JD BOWMAN, Jr., age 79, of West Jefferson, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026. Born on March 15, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio, he was a man known for the best life lesson conversations, his quick wit, his generous heart, and so much love for his family.

JD graduated from West Jefferson High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force. JD worked in Construction for many years and then went on to the trucking business, in which he started Bowman Trucking with his son. During his off time, JD enjoyed woodworking, tinkering with old cars (his favorite pastime), and watching westerns, especially ones with John Wayne.

Our beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, pastor, and coach lived a life dedicated to serving God, investing in young people, and loving his family with all his heart. Whether standing behind the pulpit, encouraging athletes from the sidelines, or spending time with those he cherished most, he led by example – with humility, compassion, integrity and unwavering faith.

His greatest accomplishments were not measured by wins on the field or sermons preached, but by the lives he touched. He inspired countless young people to believe in themselves, encouraged others to grow in their faith, and showed his family every day what unconditional love and steadfast commitment looked like. His legacy will live on in the generations he guided, the community he served, and the family who will forever carry his values in their hearts.

He leaves behind a beautiful legacy and is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 60 years Johnna Bowman; his children JD (Tabatha) Bowman, and Denise (Brad) Dubois; his grandchildren Taylor, Lexi, JD IV, and Jase Bowman, Haley (Levi) Muckridge, and Sierra (Blake) Adams; and great-grandchildren Tucker and Ella Muckridge.

He was preceded in death by his parents JD and Elberta Bowman, and his in-laws George and Mary Staton.

As we remember JD’s life, we also remember the faith that guided him every day. The one verse he lived by and new was enough to save the world was John 3:16. “For god so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth on him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse was a source of his strength, hope, and encouragement throughout his life. May it continue to inspire all who knew and loved him, just as his faith, love, and example will continue to live on in our hearts.

Visitation will be held on WEDNESDAY, July 8, 2026, from 3:00pm-7:00pm, at the RADER-McDONALD-TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 1355 W. Main Street, West Jefferson, OH, 43162. Funeral Service will be held on THURSDAY, July 9, 2026, at the funeral home starting at 10:00am. J.D. will be laid to rest at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, West Jefferson, Ohio.