Giles Bowers

BLUFFTON, SC -- Giles B. "Irish" Bowers, 80, of Bluffton, SC, passed away at his home on Saturday, March 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in his profound faith in Jesus Christ. Born and raised in Lima, Ohio, Irish graduated from Elida High School and later attended The Ohio State University. A gifted athlete, he excelled in both baseball and basketball. His athletic journey began at a young age as a member of the first Little League Baseball team in Allen County, OH, founded by his father in 1953.

After his time at Ohio State, Irish served his country in the Ohio Army National Guard from 1965 to 1971, earning recognition as an Expert Marksman. His professional career began in Real Estate, where he became a licensed broker before transitioning into banking and finance, specializing in Real Estate Mortgage. Irish's banking career began at Central Savings Association in Lima, followed by leadership roles serving as National Sales Manager for Bank One, President of Chase Bank in Findlay, OH, and ultimately, Senior Vice President of Mortgage at Huntington National Bank in Columbus, OH.

Irish's career was not just defined by professional success but by his unshakable integrity, mentorship, and the genuine care he showed for colleagues and clients alike. His wisdom and guidance shaped the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the industry he loved.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Irish was deeply committed to his community. He was elected and served as American Township Clerk for 23 years and as Secretary of the American Township Zoning Commission and Appeals Board for 20 years, always striving to make a meaningful difference.

A man of deep faith and belief in Jesus Christ, Irish served as Deacon, Elder, and Senior High Sunday School Teacher at both Market Street Presbyterian Church and New Albany Presbyterian Church. His charitable contributions were numerous, supporting Christian organizations including local charities. Alongside several business associates, he also initiated a personal fund to purchase and donate Lift Chairs to elderly individuals in need.

After retiring from a long and successful career, Irish and his wife, Debbie, made South Carolina their home where Irish continued his passion for golf. A five-time Club Champion at Findlay Country Club in OH, Irish had already earned the title of Club Champion at Hawthorne Hills Golf Club in OH. Throughout his life, he has won numerous golf tournaments, a testament to his love for the game.

In South Carolina, drawn to the stunning beauty of the Plantation and the renowned championship golf courses of Colleton River Club, Irish and Debbie purchased property. Irish not only oversaw the construction of their first house but played a key role in developing six additional homes in the community. His passion for excellence extended beyond the fairways-he served on multiple volunteer committees, including the Golf Committee, Greens and Grounds Committee, and Architectural Review Committee, ensuring the club flourished for future generations. His suggestions for improvements helped enhance the club, a place he cherished deeply.

Irish was a devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah; his brother, Roger (Dee); his children, Sean (Charlyn), Christian (Michele), Ryan (Kelly), and stepchildren, Nicole Joyce and Todd (Tara) Joyce. He was a proud grandfather to Madison, Morgan, Keaton, and Caleb, and step-grandfather to Dylan and Rian "Duke" (Ethan). He was preceded in death by his sister, Kay; his brothers, Ronald (Sonny), Darrel, and Axel; his parents, Ronald and Margaret Sproul Bowers; his daughter, Alison Rodriguez; and his stepson, Mark Joyce.

Services celebrating Irish's life will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Market Street Presbyterian Church, 1100 W. Market St, Lima, OH 45805. The burial will follow in Allentown Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4th, prior to the service at the church in the Williamsburg Room.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be sent to ~The Mark M. Joyce Melanoma Research Foundation at The Ohio State University Fund #315031, In memory of Irish Bowers, 1480 W Lane Avenue, Columbus, OH 43221

The New Albany Presbyterian Church, In Memory of Irish Bowers, PO Box 515, New Albany, OH 43054.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.