Donald Bowers Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald A. Bowers Sr., who went to be with his Lord and Savior on Feb. 11, 2026, at the age of 91. Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle to our families and a pastor to the Belle Vernon Christian Church community. He touched the lives of all who knew him with his hard work, kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. Don was born on April 6, 1934, in North Belle Vernon, to his parents, John and Nellie Schmidt Bowers. His mother labeled him as quite a comedian in his youth, and he maintained a good sense of humor throughout his life. He attended Marion Elementary, Marion Junior High, and Bellmar High School. Football played a constant role in his life. He participated in football throughout his school years and earned a varsity letter as a center and linebacker while in high school. Football would remain a lifelong passion. He had some roles in the high school drama club and was also known for playing his "geetar." The Christian Church was always a part of his life. His father, John, was a minister at Oak Grove Church of Christ in Lake Lynn, Fayette City Christian Church, and Belle Vernon Christian Church. He attended Camp Christian in Mill Run and supported this facility throughout his life. These churches all instilled Don's love for the Lord. Early in his life, Don had taken courses through Johnson Bible College and graduated as a minister. It was not until later in his life that he became the minister of Belle Vernon Christian Church on Main St., Belle Vernon. Upon graduation from high school, Don embarked on his lifelong career with the B&O railroad, working primarily at Glenwood Yards in Pittsburgh. He was active in Fayette City Christian Church of Christ in his youth and then in Belle Vernon Christian Church of Christ as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, elder, and eventually as the minister. He was the minister of this church for over 25 years. After he retired from the ministry in Belle Vernon, he would preach at the Fayette City Christian Church of Christ when the need arose. Don was devoted to his family, and it was evident in everything he did. Don married his high school sweetheart, Florence Prewett Bowers, after graduation from high school. They enjoyed living and raising their family in Brownstown (Fayette City). Don and Florence celebrated almost 68 years of marriage, with Florence passing in 2021. He leaves behind his daughter, Vicki Lynch, and husband, Barry. with whom he made his home; two sons, Donald A. Bowers Jr. and wife, Cheryl, of Stratham, NH, and Michael Bowers and wife, Tessa, of Purcellville, VA; grandchildren, Amy (Ernie) Mathews, Donald Addison Bowers III (Jen), Christopher and Nicholas Lynch, and Leilani Bowers; and great-grandchildren, Jane, Arie, and Annette Mathews, and Donald Addison Bowers IV. He had one brother, Jack (deceased). He will be deeply missed by his family, extended church family, and friends. Don had a passion for his church and members of his church. He was there for them on the joyous occasion of a new baby, nurturing the youth in church growth, visiting homes and hospitals, and serving both the deceased and their family by performing their funeral service. Don also had a passion for his dogs. Through the years each dog had a special place in his heart, especially Brindle, who was with him during his retirement years. Don will be remembered for his dedication, faith, and service to the Lord and his love of family and friends. Friends will be received from noon to 2 and 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, in FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY INC., 700 Broad Ave., Belle Vernon, 724-929-5300, www.FergusonFuneralHomeandCrematory.com. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, in the funeral home, with Pastor Sam Batton officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Auburn Cemetery.