Robert "Bob" Allen Bowen

Robert (Bob) Allen Bowen, 79, of Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, and Vero Beach and Orange Park, Florida, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

He was born in Jacksonville, Florida on June 19, 1946, and raised by his mother Eva and his stepfather Wilber (Bill) Johns.

Bob graduated from high school in Jacksonville before serving in the U.S. Navy for four years. After his honorable discharge from military service, he had a variety of adventures before eventually working at Southern Bell, which became BellSouth, where he promoted to manager. During his time at BellSouth, he married the love of his life, Jill, and they spent 44 wonderful years together. He worked at BellSouth for thirty-five years before he retired.

After his retirement, Bob and Jill spent a lot of time in the mountains of North Carolina, where he built a beautiful home. It became their favorite place, where they could enjoy nature and good times together with family, friends, and the occasional black bear who wandered into their yard.

Bob had many hobbies and interests during his lifetime. He loved rebuilding and restoring vintage cars, including a 1957 Thunderbird, driving his Jeep on the mountain trails, riding his Harley, fly fishing, and spending time with friends and family - especially his grandchildren. He was also a Master Craftsman of Salty Language and frequently showcased these skills while repairing things.

Those who knew him, knew that Bob could be relied upon in a time of need.

Bob is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jill; his brother Jimmy and sister Nancy; daughter Susan Bowen; son Christopher Bowen and his wife, Jessie; daughter Heather Moxley; and son Kyle Mitchell and his wife, Amy. He also leaves behind his five grandchildren: Aubrey, Dylan, Jack, Lily, and Austin; and many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his brother David, and his sisters, Becky and Peggy.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to donate to a local hospice organization since Care Partners Hospice was so good to him and Jill.

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