Stephen Mitchell Bowen Jr., affectionately known as “Steve” or “Stevie” to many and “Bull” to the friends he grew up playing ball with, was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, partner, uncle, friend, and faithful servant of the Lord. He passed away unexpectedly on October 25, 2026, leaving a tremendous void in the lives of the many people who loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is rejoicing in Heaven, singing praises to his Savior, and resting whole at the feet of Jesus.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen Mitchell Bowen Sr. and Betty Bowen.

He is survived by his children, Blake Bowen (MaryBeth) and Brooke McKeever (Caleb); his beloved grandchildren, Emersyn McKeever and Reese McKeever; his sister, Alyson Karlinski; his nephew, Evan Karlinski; and his longtime partner, Kay Kelley. He also leaves behind countless friends and loved ones whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

Steve grew up in Centerville, Georgia, where he developed a lifelong love for adventure, the outdoors, and the people around him. He earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Auburn University, as well as a bachelor’s in biology and a master’s in business administration from Georgia State College. He went on to serve at Robins Air Force Base for 35 years, holding many positions in engineering and supervision. A hardworking and determined man, Steve took pride in his work and approached life with perseverance, ingenuity, and an unwavering willingness to take on a challenge.

Sports were a part of Steve’s life from an early age. He grew up playing baseball and church softball under the coaching of his father and went on to win several church league championships. His love for the game continued as he coached and umpired Little League T-ball and girls’ softball teams for his children, including several All-Star teams. Through coaching, he shared his love of sports while helping young players learn teamwork, determination, and the value of giving their best.

Steve’s commitment to serving others extended beyond his career. He held leadership positions in church groups and community organizations, participated in mission trips, and was a member of The Well at Centerville from its founding. He also served as Property Engineer at Camp Vinson Valley, helping ensure that campers could enjoy safe and memorable experiences. Whether through his work, church involvement, or personal acts of kindness, Steve consistently used his time and abilities to help others.

Like everyone, Steve faced trials throughout his life, but he continued to fight through challenges with determination and perseverance. His life was a testament to resilience, the willingness to keep moving forward, and the enduring hope found in Christ. Through life’s ups and downs, he remained a man who loved deeply, gave generously, and sought to make the most of the time and opportunities he was given.

An avid outdoorsman, Steve was happiest when he was out experiencing the beauty and adventure of God’s creation. He loved hiking mountain trails, caving, riding his bike, kayaking rivers, fishing lakes, hunting, skiing, playing softball and tennis, spending time at the beach, and enjoying the lake from his boat. If he wasn’t working on a project at home, he was traveling with friends and family, finding joy in exploring new places. He was rarely content to sit still for long, and a beloved dog was never far from his side on his adventures.

Steve was truly full of life and brought joy to every gathering. He had a larger-than-life personality that drew people to him, and wherever he went, he seemed to make things more fun. People naturally gravitated toward him, drawn in by his humor, energy, and infectious laughter. There was never a dull moment with Steve around. He was always dreaming up some new plan, coming up with a crazy idea, or roping others into his latest scheme. He loved taking risks, making memories, and embracing every opportunity to enjoy life. His laughter could brighten a room, and his ability to make others laugh made time spent with him unforgettable. Whether he was singing hymns in the church choir or belting out classic rock songs in his truck, Steve did everything with enthusiasm and never worried about being quiet.

Beneath his adventurous spirit, humor, and sometimes stubborn determination was a heart that loved deeply. Steve was one of the hardest-working men, and he taught his children to do everything in life to the best of your ability. He loved fiercely and wholeheartedly, especially when it came to his family. His children and grandchildren were among his greatest joys, and he cherished them more than anything in this world. The memories he created with them, the lessons he passed down, and the love he gave so freely will remain a lasting part of his family’s story.

Above all else, Steve loved the Lord with all his heart. His faith was the foundation of his life, evident not only in his words but also in his actions, his service to others, and his desire to lead those he loved to know Jesus Christ. He sought to live out the truth of the Gospel each day and devoted himself to serving the Lord through his church, his community, and his relationships. His love for Christ shaped the way he lived, the way he gave, and the legacy he leaves behind.

His family is heartbroken by his sudden passing and will miss his laughter, his boundless energy, his adventurous spirit, and the fierce love he gave so freely. Yet, even in their grief, they rejoice in the assurance that Steve is now in the presence of his Savior, free from pain and filled with the joy of eternity. Though his time on earth has come to an end, the impact of his life will continue through the family he adored, the people he served, the memories he created, and the faith he shared. Steve’s life was a testament to loving boldly, serving generously, laughing often, embracing adventure, and living faithfully for Jesus. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., at The Well at Centerville, with a memorial service immediately following. 

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.