Eric Bowling

On the night of February 3rd, 2026, with his family by his side, peacefully, Eric Bowling stepped into Heaven to be with Jesus for all eternity. Many years ago, he made his calling and election sure. He had a strong faith in God and in his salvation through Jesus Christ. In just a simple breath, he traded in this house of clay for a mansion in Glory.

Eric was 61 years of age. He had worked most of his life as an educator, starting in Letcher County, KY. He worked serving the students and community of Harlan County, KY for over 30 years as a Teacher, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and Director of Special Education. He retired from the Harlan County Board of Education but never lost contact with his co-workers. Eric had a sharp mind and could remember his students and their families from years gone by. He would often speak of them and had genuine love and interest for everyone. Eric was an example of having a true Servant’s Heart. Everyone who met Eric experienced his gentleness, love of God, and his friendship.

Eric was a faithful member of The Wallins Christian Church. He served as Teacher and Deacon. He was blessed to share communion with his brothers and sisters in Christ. He enjoyed reading the Word of God and sharing with others the testimony of God’s grace. During his illness, he said “this may be an opportunity God has given me to tell someone about Him”.

Eric was born in 1964 to his surviving Parents, William and Charlene Bowling. Eric visited his mother almost daily and his father was one of his dearest friends. They were often seen out together, whether it was traveling or just sharing a meal, they had a true father and son bond. 

Eric loved his family very much. They will miss him greatly. He is survived by his loving Wife of 33 years. Verna Bowling; Daughter, Erica Goodrich and Husband Kyle; Son, William Bowling and Wife Grayson; Two sisters, Tammy Bowling-Bentley and Rhonda Bowling; Niece, Kendra Van Auken. Eric also leaves many other family members and special friends to cherish his memory.

During Eric’s illness with cancer, he never let his head hang down. He battled and fought hard. He always had a smile and a kind word to say. He would often say “Whatever would be The Lord’s will”. That mindset, his love for his family, church, the people around him, and mostly for his love of God, made him the man we all loved. The words of the Apostle Paul were evident in Eric’s life, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” Until we meet again.

Visitation for Eric will be held at the Wallins Christian Church from 1PM to 3PM on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Funeral Services will begin at 3PM with Jim Johnson Officiating. Burial will follow at Park Howard Cemetery with his family and friends serving as pallbearers. 

Mount Pleasant Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Eric Bowling.