Rev. James Melvin Bowen, Jr. 80 of Hillsville, passed away on Monday, December 28, 2020 at his home. Rev. Bowen was born in Salem, Virginia on March 1, 1940. He was a graduate of the University of Florida, where he received his Bachelor's degree, and then later received a Masters of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. He loved horses and auto racing, but he especially love sharing his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Rev. Bowen was preceded in death by his parents, James Melvin and Julia Dalton Bowen. Survivors include his wife, Janice Jackson Bowen; sons, Jim Bowen and wife, Donna and Bill Bowen and wife, Jennifer; brother, Edward Bowen; and grandchildren, Tyler Bowen, Dalton Bowen, and Emma Bowen.

A graveside service with burial following will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at the Dalton Family Cemetery at 10:00 AM with Rev. Bob Davis officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Rev. Bowen to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.