Willie Lee Bowens

It is with great dependence on the Lord and deep reverence that we gather to commemorate the life and legacy of Willie Lee "Minnie" Bowens. Minnie departed this earth on November 21, 2023 at the age of 89. She resided in Ewing Township, NJ. Minnie was born on April 29, 1934, in Americus, Georgia of Sumter County to Willie and Mittie Brown. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.
Minnie was a praying woman. At any given time, you could find her in her bedroom on her knees praying. She was known for her strong work ethic and meticulous nature. She took pride in keeping a schedule for her housework and would often say, "I'm getting ready to do my housework, rake the leaves or even shovel the snow." She had a passion for old Southern cuisine, including dishes like chicken feet, neckbones, ox tail, and pigs feet. Minnie was especially renowned for her macaroni and cheese, candied yams, dressing and gravy which she lovingly prepared on special occasions.
Despite never receiving formal financial education, Minnie was incredibly savvy with her finances. She believed in saving for a rainy day and would always encourage others to do the same. She collected spare change diligently and believed in being prepared for any unexpected circumstances. Minnie was also a generous and giving person, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. She frequently donated to various churches that she felt a burden for.
Minnie had a successful career as a professional housekeeper and retired from her last place of employment with Mr. John Ellis of Princeton, NJ. In addition to her career, Minnie enjoyed listening to music and watching the Philadelphia Eagles and the Seventy Sixers play, as her hobbies.
Minnie was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon Smith (Michael); her siblings, Felton Thomas (Frances), Lesten Thomas (Georgia), Robert Lee Thomas (Virginia), Lilly Mae Brown, Rufus Brown, Lucy Mae Josey, Minnie Jean Brown, Nancy Ella Jones (Julius) and Emma Lee Brown.
Family meant the world to Minnie, and she cherished spending time with her loved ones. She is survived by her daughters, Dorothy Jones, Katrina Bowens, and Sharmane Fleming (Glenn); a son in love, Darrell Williams (Brenda); grandchildren Nicola Lewis (Howard), Sherriece Jones, David Jones, Dejuan Holman, D'Haven Whitis, Emorejai Whitis, Glenn Fleming, Jr., and Joseph Fleming; eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Minnie will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.