Bonnie Bowles

Bonnie Mae Bowles, a beloved nurse, respected leader, and humble servant to her faith, family, and community, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 82. Her life was marked by compassion, quiet strength, and an unwavering dedication to serving others.
She was born on June 4, 1943, in Jefferson City, Missouri, the daughter of Melvin Forrest and Gladys Lea (Jones) Miller.
Professionally, Bonnie was known as the consummate professional, always striving for excellence in everything she did. From 1970 to 1981, she worked at Charles E. Still Hospital in Jefferson City, Missouri, serving most of that time as a licensed practical nurse. Her dedication and excellence earned her high praise from then-CEO James Cox, who described her as the "most outstanding LPN in our employ."
In 1981, Bonnie was appointed Executive Director of the Missouri State LPN Association. She quickly established herself as a savvy lobbyist and administrator, helping pass two LPN-friendly bills at the state Capitol, expanding the organization's membership, and revitalizing its mission.
In 1983, Bonnie joined the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS)-what she called her "dream job." She rose through the ranks, becoming the organization's first female Executive Director in 1988, a position she held until her retirement in 2008. Her leadership shaped the future of MAOPS, including the establishment of the Wetzel Scholar Program to develop new leaders in the osteopathic profession.
Her work for the osteopathic profession was widely recognized. She received the Distinguished Service Award from the University of Health Sciences (now Kansas City University) in 1993, the Chancellors Medallion Distinguished Service Award from A.T. Still University in 2021, and MAOPS' highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, in 2011. She remained deeply grateful for the friendships, memories, and purpose she found in serving the osteopathic profession.
Beyond her career, Bonnie lived a life filled with quiet service and simple joys. She loved walking, hiking, reading, and studying the Bible. In retirement, she participated in ladies' Bible studies, helped at her church, and volunteered with local food pantries, Christian schools, and the Mercy Hospital gift shop.
Her greatest joy was spending time with her family. She loved traveling-especially heading west to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, as well as discovering the beauty of Montana, Wyoming, and everything in between. Bonnie's life was one of humility, hard work, and heartfelt service. She gave her best to her family, her profession, her church, and her community. To all who knew her, she was the hardest working person you could ever meet. Although she was accomplished professionally, her priority always remained her children and grandchildren. She was known for her warm hospitality and was often the last person to sit at the table, always making sure everyone else was cared for first.
Survivors include her children, Brian Bowles (Chris) of Jefferson City, Mo., and Dana Morgan (Jeff) of Nixa, Mo.; her grandchildren, Miller Bowles, Jacob Morgan (Megan), Sam Bowles (Katie), Colten Morgan (Erica), Corbin Morgan (Madi), Elly Bowles, and Mikaela Bowles; four great-grandchildren; her siblings, Blenda Dunavant, Bill Miller (Kay), and Joyce Wardenburg; and her sister-in-law, Luanne Miller.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Gladys Miller, and her brother, Gene Miller. Bonnie's legacy will live on through the many lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and steadfast spirit.
A visitation will be held 4:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph with the Reverend Father Stephen Jones officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the William L. Wetzel Osteopathic Education and Research Foundation, 1423 Randy Ln., Jefferson City, Mo., 65101.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Bonnie Bowles, please visit our Tree Store.