James L. Bowden, Coast Guard veteran

James L. Bowden, 76, of Greenwood, passed away of natural causes Friday, Feb. 12, 2016, at his sister's home surrounded with love. He was born in Oak Hall, Va., Monday, Jan. 15, 1940, to the late Elmer and Geneva F. (Jester) Bowden.

Mr. Bowden was a veteran of the Coast Guard who served for 10 years. James served aboard ice breakers C6-83490 and USC6C Evergreen. He ended his career as petty officer 2nd class and was awarded the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal (66), and Antarctica Service Medal (65). After his military service he worked as a chef.

James will be remembered for his gentle spirit and always being helpful to others when able, and he loved all of his family deeply.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Bowden is preceded in death by his two brothers: Thomas and David Bowden. He is survived by his four children: James Bowden II, Mary Deptula, Andrea Adams and Charles Bowden, all of Delaware; his brother, Donald Bowden of South Carolina; his three sisters: Joyce Willon of Bridgeville, Geraldine Kennedy of Greenwood, and Jane Jefferson of Bridgeville; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

All services are private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Mr. Bowden's memory to The Home of the Brave, 6632 Sharps Road, Milford, DE 19963.

Arrangements by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, Bridgeville.

Please visit Mr. Bowden's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.