James Bowman Obituary
James Wallace Bowman, 63, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at his home. He was born on September 1, 1962, in Jonesboro to Norman and Lavea Bowman.
James loved to work and spent over 40 years as a boat captain on river barges. He was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed the freedom of the open road on his Harley-Davidson. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, who brought him great joy.
He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Bowman; his daughter, Sarah Manz; and his brother, Normie Bowman.
He is survived by his son, James “Zach” Bowman of Little Rock; his daughter, Jeanna Bollinger (Paul) of Glenallen, Missouri; his girlfriend and caretaker, Tennessee Williams of Jonesboro; his mother, Lavea Bowman of Monticello; his brother, Garry Bowman (Cheryl) of Jonesboro; his sister, Lanette Inzer of Jonesboro; and grandchildren, Skylar Manz, Kylie Manz, Rose Bollinger, and Damien Yates.
Visitation will be held from 9:30–10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Emerson Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 10:30 a.m. with Jeff Overstreet officiating. Honorary pallbearers are Jeff Overstreet, David Ellis, and Garry Bowman.
In Lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Northeast Arkansas Humane Society, 6111 E. Highland Dr. Jonesboro, ARkasas 72401 or you can click the link below the obituary text.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1629 E. Nettleton, Jonesboro, AR 72401
People and places connected with James
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for James Bowman
Tell your own story about James
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in James Bowman's name
How to support James's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor James Bowman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
