Sheriff John Bowens

The Prologue

On August 17, 1946, in Dawson, Georgia, an icon was born. John Bowens grew into a man whose life would be defined by service, duty, and an unwavering devotion to his family. From humble beginnings to making history, his journey was one of strength, principle, and deep love for his community.

Faith & Foundation

At an early age, John was introduced to Christ, becoming a member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Church in Herod, Georgia. He later moved his membership to Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Dawson where his faith found a permanent home. A pillar of the church, he served faithfully as a Deacon for over 30 years, guiding others with the same steady hand he used to lead his community.

John received his early education from the public school system of Terrell County, graduating from Carver High School in the Class of 1965. He continued to further his education with the State of Georgia throughout his distinguished law enforcement career.

Love & Family

In 1966, John married the love of his life, Janice Williams Bowens. Together, they shared a devoted union built on mutual respect and affection. Their marriage was blessed with four children-Darrell, Brenda, Marcus, and Pamela-who remained a constant source of pride and joy throughout his life.

A Historic Tenure

John Bowens was a man who understood the value of hard work. He dedicated his time to the Terrell County Board of Education as a bus driver and Dawson Motor Company as a mechanic, before answering the call to public safety. He served with the Dawson Fire Department, Dawson Police Department, Dougherty County Police Department, and the Terrell County Sheriff's Department as a deputy.

In 1992, John Bowens made history. He was elected to the prestigious position of Sheriff of Terrell County, Georgia. He held this office with dignity and grit until ending his tenure in 2024.

He was a member of St. Mark Lodge 59 Free and Accepted Mason, Dawson, Georgia. Also, he was a Deacon and the Chairman of the Deacon Board for 30 plus years.

32 Years of Service

He served as the longest-sitting Sheriff I Terrell County History.

A Historic Milestone

He stands in history as the longest-sitting African-American Sheriff-elect in the State of Georgia.

Sheriff Bowens was known for his unwavering devotion to his family, his community, and those he served. Outspoken yet deeply principled, he never hesitated to stand up for the vulnerable. Above all, he was reliable-a rock that others could count on without hesitation.

The Legacy

Sheriff John Bowens was preceded in death by his parents, Gora Bowens, Jr., and Florine Taylor Bowens; two sisters, Eva Spencer and Bobbi Bobo; two brothers, Ulysses Spencer and Charles Bowens; and his daughter-in-law, Diane Tisdale Bowens.

His legacy of love, values, and strength is carried forward by those who remain: his loving wife, Janice Williams Bowens; children, Darrell Bowens (Shekilla), Brenda Bowens, Marcus Bowens (April), and Pamela Bowens; grandchildren, Dereyco Bowens (Keshia), Safira Bowens, Cecily Bowens, Marcus Bowens Jr. (Chandi), Shelton Bowens, Odonis Dale, Morgan Bowens, Kentravious Leary, Kamarion Leary, and Jaiden Leary; great-grandchildren, Janiyah Jackson, Tyquan Merriweather, Kennedi Granger, and Peyton Bowens; siblings, sisters, Iri Dean Pittman (Zeke), Joanne Bowens, Lorela Jones (Lovie C), Glinda Bowens (Marvin), and Daphney Bowens, and brothers, Edgar Bowens, Melvin Bowens (Stella), and Alphonza Bowens; special bonds-best friends/brothers, Johnny Bee and Joe Durham, Sr.

He also leaves to cherish his memory: a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other extended family, friends, respected colleagues in law enforcement, and the entire community of Terrell County.