Carl Spencer Bowen was born February 27, 1948 to the late Eva and Henry Bowen in Dayton, Ohio. He was the youngest of four children and grew up in a wholesome, close-knit family environment. Carl accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal Savior at a very young age and joined the Wayman AME Church of Dayton, Ohio.
Carl's father transitioned when Carl was in his early teens. He immediately accepted the responsibility as man of the family and began working to support his mom whom he held dearest to his heart. His first job was at a police uniform manutacturing company located next door to his family's home. It was here that he learned the craft of sewing. His dedication and hard work was quickly recognized; so much so, that the owners wanted him to remain employed there after he completed his education. But Carl had other plans for his future.
He attended Roosevelt High School in Dayton. While there he joined the high school band as lead percussionist and discovered his love for music. After graduating he continued to work and put himself through college. He attended Akron University and completed his undergraduate work at the University of Dayton in Electrical Engineering. Also during this time he decided to join a popular local band, The Moroccos, as drummer. He traveled with the band throughout Ohio mesmerizing adoring fans. He referred to these times as, "what kept me out of trouble", and is also where he learned to appreciate the saying, "give the drummer some".
Carl started what he described as a wonderful career with AT&T, then Ohio Bell. His first job with the company was a Stock Technician in July of 1969. Over the next 14 years he was promoted to several positions. In 1982, he began work with AT&T Information Services (ATTIS) as a PBX Installer - he described it as, "The best job I ever had". As adventurous as he was this was also a time when he joined a biker club called The Toros and became its business manager and was dubbed with the title "Colonel". He was a "behind the scenes" kind of guy who was instrumental in inspiring the group to become a business minded organization. He continued to transition to different positions within the company intil 1989, during which time he suffered the loss of his mother; and in 1990, he was relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and started work as a Technician for AT&T, NCC East. He described this life change as, "The best move I've ever made". It was as though Carl closed a chapter in his life and opened a new one claiming Atlanta as his home. Being new to the south, he befriended a group of guys who, too, were relocated with the company from different parts of the country, and labeled themselves, "The Wrecking Crew". They continue to remain close friends. During this time he joined the prestigious Toastmasters Club, District 14, and learned the art of public speaking, achieving several awards. In 1992, he was promoted to the position of Instructor/PIM Supervisor for AT&T NOET division where he remained until he retired September 30, 1998 after 29 years of service. He later joined Alexander At'ta Associates, Inc. and continued teaching and speaking engagements for the company.
Carl's first commitment in moving to Atlanta was to find a church home and serve the Lord. He soon joined St. Philip AME Church in 1991. By choice, he did not walk down the isle the traditional way; he personally met Pastor George Moore in his chambers and was welcomed into the Church family. He proclaimed his desire to serve the Lord, and in whatever capacity needed, from which he started a long, fully committed relationship with his Pastor. He would often say, "I love my Pastor, and would do anything for him and the Church". He first joined the Male Usher Board as a proud door keeper, to which he served a number of years achieving the honor of Male Usher of the year award, November, 1996. He also joined the Music Audio Ministry Committee which soon became his passion and calling. He was appointed as an officer of the church. He served on the SPC Utilization Committee and dedicated many hours (years) and lead the marketing campaign for the church's Sanctuary, a position in which he worked countless hours preparing for Sunday services. Carl was often that articulate, demonstrative and committed voice that permeated the Sanctuary during services as he was frequently asked to do announcements. In 2006, he was appointed to the Trustee Board where he continued to serve as a dedicated member. Other organizations/committees include: Committe for Cultural Arts, Retreat Picnic committee and the Black Tie Event Committee where he served as Master of Ceremony (MC) for three consecutive years. When asked, he would always reply, saying, "I never have had bad days". His infectious smile and laughter, always willing to help others, his dedication to Saint Philip and to his pastor, and his never ending commitment to serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, will always be remembered by the many lives he touched. He will be sorely missed.
Carl is survived by his devoted and long time companion of 14 years, Pamela Bell; his daughter, Chelsea Carlette Rene' Bowen, whom he adored and treasured; Albert Tillman; his sons Duane Bowen of Savannah, Georgia, Jerry Cantrell (Lisa) of Killeen, Texas; his sister, Gail Smyth of Trotwood, Ohio; grandchildren, Tiffany Wall, Duane, Jr., Marlow, Kirah, Jerry Rosier, James, Joshua, Shimarayah; his loving Atlanta family, Rhonda, Charles, Cicely & Jarrett Kelley, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
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