Durwood Bowen

Durwood Claude Bowen passed away peacefully on August 22 at his residence. Son of the late Janie Parker and Earl Linton Bowen, he was born in Portsmouth on May 4, 1919. After spending much of his childhood in New England, the Bowens moved to Danville in 1933 where Durwood soon met his future wife of 68 years, the late Hilda Clayton. He is survived by a son, Clayton E. Bowen of the Richmond area. Durwood proudly served during World War II in the U.S. Navy?s ?Lighter than Air? Blimp Squadron, stationed in both the Caribbean and North Africa. He later served in the U.S. Naval Reserves for 33 years. Durwood was co-owner of Mobley-Bowen Hardware, Inc. until his retirement in 1981, a 56-year member of Grace Design United Methodist Church, past-president of the Danville chapter of the AARP, and a member of VFW post #647. One of Durwood?s passions was his attendance of the Masonic Lodges in the Danville District where he served as Master, District Deputy Grand Master, District Instructor of Work, and a member of the Grand Lodge?s Committee on Work. He also served as High Priest and Secretary for the Royal Arch Masons and as Worthy Patron for the Order of the Eastern Star. Durwood is survived by many local Masonic Brethren who he mentored, inspired, and respected during his 65 years as a Mason. During his final months of life, Durwood and his son were blessed with the support of four kind and compassionate individuals. Our heartfelt thanks and God?s blessings go to Mary Lou, Warner, Phyllis, and Linda. We love you. A Masonic funeral and military rites will be held at his graveside on Wednesday, August 24 at 11:00 AM in Highland Burial Park, Pastor Charles Wickham presiding. Family and friends will gather to remember Durwood at Grace Design United Methodist Church, 1064 Franklin Turnpike, Danville, VA 24540 from 5 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday afternoon. In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation in Durwood?s memory to Grace Design United Methodist Church, or to the Pittsylvania County Meals on Wheels Program, P.O. Box 1119, Chatham, VA, 24531. Wrenn-Yeatts, North Main Chapel is serving the Bowen Family. And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.

Durwood Bowen

May 4, 1919 - August 22, 2011