News Summary
The Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr. passed away, leaving a legacy of service in the United Methodist Church. His contributions were felt across Virginia and Tennessee over decades. Family and friends remember him for his dedication to the community and his compassionate spirit. A memorial service is planned, reflecting his enduring impact.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr. passed away on June 16, 2025, leaving a profound impact on the community he served for over 50 years as a respected United Methodist clergy. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from friends, family, and congregants alike.
Born on May 12, 1939, in Wythe County, Virginia, Bowles was the son of Albert J. Bowles, Sr. and Ruby M. Crigger Bowles. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, and his wife of nearly 65 years, Christene Blessing Bowles. Bowles is survived by five children: David Emory Bowles, Dreama Diane Martin (husband Eric), Christy Dawn Lim (husband Wath), Dee Ann Cain (husband Jac), and Laura L. Boyer (husband John). He also left behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, showcasing a family legacy that extended well beyond his own life.
Bowles had an extensive education, having attended Lebanon Elementary School and graduating from George Wythe High School in 1956. He completed his undergraduate studies at Emory and Henry College in 1961. His commitment to theological education was evident as he went on to earn a Master of Divinity Degree from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 1965, followed by a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Columbia Theological Seminary in 1987.
Throughout his career, Bowles served in various capacities within the United Methodist Church, having pastored numerous churches across Virginia and Tennessee. His significant contributions included serving as District Superintendent for the Maryville and Chattanooga Districts in Tennessee. Bowles was actively involved in several Holston Conference boards, agencies, and committees, demonstrating a strong dedication to the mission of the church.
His leadership was recognized at a higher level as he was elected as a delegate to five General Conferences and six Jurisdictional Conferences of the United Methodist Church. Furthermore, he contributed eight years of service on the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, where he chaired the Division of Ministry for four years. His belief in the mission and connectional structure of the United Methodist Church was a cornerstone of his ministry.
To honor his memory, the family will hold a Celebration of Life Service on June 21, 2025, at 2:00 pm at First-Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Friends and loved ones are welcome to gather and pay their respects before the service, starting two hours prior. Following the service, Bowles will be laid to rest at Hamilton Memorial Gardens in Hixson, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be directed to the ABIDE ministry, which supports cognitive struggles, at First-Centenary United Methodist Church. This initiative reflects Bowles’ compassionate spirit and commitment to helping those in need, continuing his legacy of service and dedication to the church community.
The Reverend Doctor Albert James Bowles, Jr.’s passing marks the end of an era, but the values he espoused and the lives he touched will continue to resonate in the hearts of many. His contributions to the ministry and the broader community will not be forgotten, as those who knew him remember his dedication and love for his faith and family.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Albert Bowles
- Wikipedia: United Methodist Church
- Dignity Memorial: Christene Bowles
- Google Search: Albert James Bowles Jr. news
- Encyclopedia: Theology
- Google News: Chattanooga Tennessee
