Dorothy "Dot" Bowen

Dorothy "Dot" Bowen, 81, passed away unexpectedly June 21, 2012.
She was born in Screven, Ga., in 1930 to Omar and Cornelia Aspinwall. Dorothy was the second youngest of five siblings. While employed by a local physician, her uncle, she met and married the love of her life, Benny Bowen, in 1949. They lived in Screven until 1958 when they came to Fort Walton Beach, Fla., at the urging of Benny's uncle (who lived here at the time). "They are begging for educators here" they were told. With much trepidation, they made a visit to check things out for themselves. As they crossed the Destin Bridge, they said to each other, "Whatever they are offering, we are taking." And so began their long and fruitful life in Florida.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her four siblings; and one niece. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Benny; son, Ben and wife, Kelly, and their children, Keeler and Parker, of Milton, Fla.; son, Jeff and wife, Daphne, and their son, Jackson, of Fort Walton Beach; and three nieces. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Jerri Haywood of Tallahassee, Fla.; and her three children and their families.
Dorothy was an active member of First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach, where she co-managed the church media center for over 25 years. She earned her teaching degree from the University of West Florida, and spent 20 active years teaching in the business department of Fort Walton Beach High School. She retired from teaching in 1993. In her most recent years, she volunteered at the Emerald Coast Surgery Center where she enjoyed helping make a difference to the workload of the staff.
Dorothy will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. She had a strong appreciation and joy for life. Dorothy deeply loved her family and had a close relationship and enjoyed spending time with her three wonderful grandsons. She took the time to appreciate each day that was given to her and was grateful for the joys each of those days held.
Services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 25, at First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in Brooks Cemetery, which is located next to the church.
Flowers are accepted; or a donation in Dorothy's name to the First Baptist Church media center would be appreciated.
Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. To share memories, express condolences and sign the guestbook, please visit www.daviswatkins.com