Lee Arther "LA" Bowens

Lee Arther “LA” Bowens, a lifelong resident of Longview, Texas, was born on August 27, 1941 to the late Ulyssee and Effie Jane Bowens. Raised in the Pleasant Hill community, he attended school from elementary through high school in the Pleasant Hill School System of Harrison County.

A hardworking and dedicated man, Lee Arther was employed with Marathon LeTourneau Company, where he proudly served as a welder for 39 years before retiring. Outside of work, he found joy in gardening and spending time on his front porch, his favorite spot to watch the neighborhood’s day to day life unfold. Known affectionately as the “Top Flight Security” of the area, he kept up with everything that happened around him, even when he could no longer drive.

Lee Arther was also celebrated for his incredible talent on the grill. For many years he barbecued for families throughout the community and quickly earned the title “King of Bar-B-Que.” His passion and skill were so admired that he was honored with a plaque recognizing his love for the craft.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sibling, Mayfield Bowens.

Lee Arther was previously married to Nadine Bowens for 47 years, and from this union four children were born.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Vanessa Bowens of Forest Hill, Texas, Tammie Odum (Willis) of Longview, Texas, and Tanya Bowens of Longview, Texas; his son, Kenneth Bowens (Denise) of Hallsville, Texas. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Corey Bowens of Longview, Texas, Adrian Ward (Amanda) of Longview, Texas, Jakaevon Odum of Longview, Texas, ShaQuala Jackson (Quintele) of Fort Worth, Texas, and Ashley Gaines (Marquell) of Midlothian, Texas.

He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, Michael Ward, Semaj Ward, Jaquaylon Odum, JuQualun Jackson, JuMyaui Jackson, Lennox Gaines, Legacy Gaines, and Aaliyah Bowens; his sisters, Betty Bowens of San Antonio, Texas, Bobbie Bowens Reliford of Longview, Texas, Gertie Mae Brookins (Lyndon Joe) of Longview, Texas, and Lacie Boyd of Longview, Texas; and his brother Billy Norris Bowens of Dallas, Texas.

In addition, he leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends who will deeply miss his presence, humor, and unforgettable spirit.

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