James Clifford "Jim" Bowden Sr.

1935 - 2021

James "Jim" Clifford Bowden Sr.
January 12, 2021
Modesto, California - James "Jim" Clifford Bowden Sr. (85) of Modesto Ca. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. His wife and loved ones were by his side. His absence has left a hole in all of our lives especially his wife, Mary, his children and grandchildren who loved him with all their hearts.
Born, June 9 1935 in Wainwright, Oklahoma to Edward and Eva Bowden and surrounded by brothers and sisters, he learned to work hard and the values of honesty and love. He moved to California around 1954 and was immediately hired for farm work and eventually employed by Gallo Winery where he retired after 39 years and met Mary McConnell, "the love of his life" whom he married in 1960 and raised 5 children. Jim enjoyed spending time with his wife, his grandkids, traveling, camping and off roading with friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Eva Bowden, his siblings Irene Bowden, Melvin Bowden, E.K. Bowden, Lucille Turner and Bonnie Jean Arnold-Phillips. Children Franky Lee Autry and Betty Lou Cordero.
Jim is survived by his wife Mary Bowden, children James Clifford Bowden Jr., Sammy Autry all of Modesto and Susan LeBlanc of Gilbert Arizona. His many grandchildren and great grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Siblings Lawrence Bowden, Joe Bowden, Bobby Bowden, Joyce Stevenson, Wanda Cook and a multitude of nephews and nieces.
"For if we live, we live with the Lord, and if we die, we die with the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lords." Romans 14:8
A graveside service will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park Cemetery on January 27, 2021 at 10 a.m.
Mask are mandatory. Please come prepared.