James Warren Bowling

James “Jim” Warren Bowling, 64, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on March 6, 2026, in Louisville. Jim was born on September 30, 1961, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Warren Harding Bowling and Mary Dorothy Bowling.

Jim graduated from Western High School in 1979 and went on to build a long and respected career as an electrician with IBEW Local 369, where he worked for 40 years. During his time with the union, Jim formed countless friendships and was well known among coworkers for his humor, reliability, and the camaraderie he shared with those around him.

Outside of work, Jim enjoyed spending time with his wife, Cindy, and their friends. The couple often met up with friends to play pool, a game that encapsulated their competitive spirit and love for the game.

Jim also had a passion for horse racing and enjoyed betting on the horses year-round. One of his proudest moments came in 2018 when he picked the winning horse in the Kentucky Derby. He was also a car enthusiast and took great pride in his 2002 convertible Corvette, occasionally entering it in local car shows.

More than anything, Jim cherished time with his grandchildren. He loved racing slot cars and was known to “Jimmy rig” a few to give them a little extra speed. He could often be found swimming with the grandkids or building things with and for them, always happy to share his creativity and skills.

Jim was also a bit of a homebody who enjoyed the simple things in life—listening to 80s rock and roll, watching classic westerns, and cheering on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats. He rarely missed a football game, a loyal fan through and through.

Jim will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his sense of humor, his love for his family, and the joy he found in life’s everyday moments.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Warren Harding Bowling and Mary Dorothy French Bowling; and sister, Kathy Reis.

Left to cherish his memory, Jim is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Cindy Bowling; children, Kristy Kirk, Rachel Bowling (Patrick), and Ryan Bowling; grandchildren, Olivia Kirk, Jaley Crawford, and Blayne Mustard; sisters, Cindy Saling, Karen Lichtefeld, and Lisa Schonburg; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at Otts Tavern, 4229 Hillview Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, March 15, 2026. His family invites anyone who knew and loved Jim to join them for his celebration of life and share in his memory.

Jim’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him