Kenneth Dean Bowman

Kenneth Dean Bowman, 66, of Bailey, passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. A gathering will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Joyner's Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson, until 3:00 p.m.

Kenny was called home after a long and courageous battle. Born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, he later made North Carolina his home, where he lived for more than 20 years.

Kenny had a gift for tinkering with just about anything, always trying to "tweak" it to make it a little better, as long as kitchen knives weren't involved. He loved laughter, treasured time spent playing cards with Kippy and George and found great joy in creating hundreds of beautiful Diamond Art pictures, one of his favorite pastimes. Known affectionately to many as "Uncle Sleepy," a nickname lovingly given to him by his niece, Sarah "Beanie", Kenny brought smiles to those around him with his sense of humor and playful spirit. His best friend, George, whom Kenny jokingly referred to as his "Vegas-pushing medicine stealer" and always tried to make cry, shared countless laughs and memories with him. And a special thanks to dear friend Jackie Rogers of Wilson, who helped Kenny comfortably transition to his forever home.

Above all, Kenny was a devoted husband, beloved brother, uncle, and friend whose love, laughter, and larger-than-life personality touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered through the many cherished memories he leaves behind.

Kenny is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Stephanie Bowman; his sister, Kathleen "Kippy" Donahue and husband, George, of New Bern; his brother, Charles Bowman and wife, Deborah, of Lynn, Massachusetts, and his nieces and nephews, Tammy, Donny, Paul, Sarah, Shannon, Jessica, Bobby, EJ, Paige, Bethany, and many others whom he loved dearly

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Bowman; his sisters, Diane, Lynn, and Annie; and his brothers, Bob, Alby, and Glen.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.