Nell Bowden

Nell Bowden passed away Sunday March 29, 2026, surrounded by her loving family following a lengthy illness. A celebration of life will be Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM with a visitation for family and friends one hour prior to the service at Central Baptist Church, Graham Road, Gray, Georgia. Interment will follow at James Cemetery, James Community. Scott Walston will officiate.

Nell was born in Gray, Georgia on September 7, 1941, to the late John Henry and Maggie Louise Hawkins Burnette Sr., In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Darrin Bowden and siblings, John Henry Burnette Jr., Katheryn Burnette Smith, Jean Baxley, Emily Bryant, Miriam Grimes, Myrtle Hogan, Charlotte Bradley, Bobby Burnette, Billy Burnette, Jonnie Amerson, and Sue Burnette.

Nell was an active member of Central Baptist Church where she gave her time generously to church ministries especially Central Sisters and children's ministry. She was a graduate of Jones County High School. She worked for Appling Brothers Construction Company as a secretary for many years. Nell will always be remembered by her family for her enthusiastic attitude toward life. She was kind and generous and had a joyful spirit. Kind-hearted, selfless and wise she always put her family first. Nell made sure she planned and organized the family events for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas at her home.

Nell is survived by her loving husband of sixty-six years, Benjamin Bowden, daughter in law, Traci Bowden, Nells pride and joy grandchildren Deeh and Andrew Bowden, Sisters, Shirley Beck, and Cathy Horne and numerous and nieces and nephews.

Gray Memorial Chapel is honored to be entrusted with the care of the Nell Bowden family. You may register your condolences at graymemorialchapel.com.