William Thomas Bowers III
Born: November 1, 1942 | Died: September 19, 2025
William Thomas Bowers III, lovingly known as Tommy, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to his family, faith, and farming. Born on November 1, 1942, in the close-knit Oak View Community of Walland, TN, Tommy lived a life rooted in the values of patience, laughter, and an unwavering love for life and faith in Jesus.
A proud graduate of Porter High School, Tommy went on to attend Maryville College, where he excelled as a two-sport athlete in football and baseball, forging long-lasting friendships and memories. As an avid, lifelong sports enthusiast, competitor, and outdoorsman, Tommy's favorite hobbies were hunting and watching his grandchildren compete in multiple sports; He never missed a game. His next favorite pastime was competing against the grandkids in family ping-pong, corn hole and card tournaments, where he reigned as their champion.
Tommy's commitment to his community was evident through his lifelong membership at Oak View Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon for many years, offering guidance and support to all. His relationship with Christ was a cornerstone in his life that he shared with everyone around him.
Tommy's passion for agriculture defined much of his life. As a dairy, diversified, and cattle farmer, he poured his heart into the land, earning respect and admiration across Blount County. His leadership extended to his service on the Farm Bureau board of directors and the Blount Farmer's Co-Op board of directors, as well as his role as Vice-President of Blount Mutual Insurance Agency. In 2018, his contributions to athletics and community were honored with his induction into the Blount County Sports Hall of Fame.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, WT Bowers II and Wilma Owenby Bowers, his sister Charlotte Mynatt, his brother-in-law Lenville Powell, and his beloved granddaughter Railee Bowers.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 61years, Charlotte Bowers, whose partnership was the cornerstone of his life. Tommy leaves behind his son Brad (Missy) Bowers, daughter Kristi (Marty) Yates, and his cherished grandchildren: Lendi (Andy) Eldridge, Lee (Kinley) Yates, Landry Yates, Gracie (Ryan) Parker, and Thomas Bowers. His great-granddaughter, Rylee Parker, brought him immense joy in his later years. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Lynn Powell and nephew, Brent Mynatt.
Tommy's life was a testament to the power of kindness, laughter, and love. His gentle spirit and infectious joy touched everyone he met, from neighbors in Oak View to fellow farmers across the county. His legacy will live on in the fields he tended, the family he cherished, and the community he served so faithfully.
Receiving of friends will be held at Oak View Baptist Church on Thursday, September 25th from 1pm - 4pm. The service will be at 4 pm followed by the burial with Charles Bailey and Scott Huffstetler officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oak View Baptist Church at 2704 Ellejoy Road Walland, TN 37886.
www.blountfuneralandcremation.com
Published by The Daily Times from Sep. 23 to Sep. 24, 2025.