Mariah was raised in Gracewood, Georgia, where she attended Floyd Graham Elementary School in Hephzibah. From an early age, she demonstrated a genuine love for learning and developed friendships that would last a lifetime. She later attended and proudly graduated from T. W. Josey High School.
At approximately 11 years of age, Mariah accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized, beginning a lifelong journey of faith. She became a devoted member of Live River Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for many years. Mariah generously shared her gifts through her participation in the choir and served with dedication and care as the church’s Secretary. Her faith and commitment to her church family remained a guiding force throughout her life.
In 1972, shortly after graduating from high school, Mariah began her distinguished federal career at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site. She entered the Word Processing Center as a typist and, through diligence, professionalism, and unwavering dedication, advanced into positions of increasing responsibility. Over the course of her career, she served as a Budget Analyst and ultimately retired in 2010 as an Industrial Security Specialist, completing 38 years of faithful and honorable service to the United States Government.
Mariah will be remembered as a woman of quiet strength, deep faith, and steadfast devotion to her family and loved ones. She was a source of guidance, encouragement, and comfort, always offering a listening ear, a kind word, and a steady presence. She touched many lives and was a caring, loving friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand. Even during her illness, Mariah continued to express her love and concern for others through unexpected phone calls and thoughtful gestures, reflecting her selfless and compassionate spirit.
Mariah was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Earnest Bowman, Sr., and Fannie Jo Bowman, and two brothers, George H. Elim and Earnest Bowman, Jr.
She leaves to cherish her loving memory two brothers, James H. Bowman (Mattie) of Maryland and Frank H. Bowman (Katrina) of Hephzibah; three sisters, Maggie Bowman Tate of Augusta, S. Lee Shorty (Wess) of Lithonia, and Jonell Bowman O’Bryant of Augusta; Two Sister in Laws, Viola Elim and Pamelia Bowman; a God Son, Dr. Terrance Johnson, along with a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family members, and a multitude of dear friends.
Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the special friendships she cultivated, and the enduring love she shared with her family, friends, and church community. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit, values, and memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Public viewing will be Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Live River Baptist Church, 3404 Jack Kelly Rd, Augusta, GA 30906
A celebration of life will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 23, 2026, at Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, GA.
Interment will follow at Mount Olive Memorial Gardens, 3666 Deans Bridge Road, Hephzibah, GA.
Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, GA. (706)790-8858.
Send flowers to the service of Mariah Ann Bowman
Dishecal Manley sent The Peace Lily for Mariah Ann Bowman - January 20, 2026
We're sorry to hear of Mariah's passing. Wishing her family comfort and peace as you navigate this difficult time.
It is with deep sadness that I offer my sincere condolences to the Bowman family on the passing of their Beloved Mariah. I feel especially honored to have known her and to have witnessed the beginning of her work journey. When I introduced Mariah to the Atomic Energy Commission in 1972 through the Summer Hire Program, it was clear that she was someone special. She went on to build a successful career, earning the respect of all who worked with her - not only as a dedicated and exemplary employee, but as a kind, generous and truly beautiful Soul. P. Kenner
I would like to express my sincere and deepest condolences to the family of Mariah. I remember Mariah from my days at Floyd Graham Elementary School. She and my sister (Patricia Carter) were classmates at Floyd Graham and later at T.W Josey. She was one of my sisters first friends and they shared a close bond at Floyd Graham. To the family you are in my heart and prayers.
My love and condolences to the family.
Family and Friends Resiliency defines Mariah's presence. May her legacy live on with grace and purpose. Faithful servant of God job well done. Faithfully submitted: Vivian Jones Brooks & Family Augusta GA T.W.JOSEYH.S.'72
You fought a great fight, and was a wonderful light to all that knew you. Rest in power, peace and love.
We are deeply sorry for the loss of Mariah. Please know our family is holding you close in our thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in the love around you and in the memories you shared. -On behalf of the family of Tyneishia Tate wife of Anthony Tate
Condolences to the family of Mariah Bowman . Mariah had a kind heart and a sweet sprit, she will be greatly missed. Mariah and I remained friends after graduating from high school . ( Class of 1972 )
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Mariah's family. I had worked with her at SRS, and she was a very kind person always willing to help.
I worked with Mariah at SRS and have many fond memories of her. My condolences to her family. She was a great friend to many and will truly be missed. RIP dear friend!
I worked with Mariah at DOE-SR and I am sending my condolences to her family. I am sorry to hear of her passing.
Mariah was a sweet and quiet young lady. Take your rest now Mariah. You will be missed greatly. Condolences and prayers to the family. Beverly Barnes Thomas / Class of 1972/T.W. Josey High School
My condolences to the family. May you rest in peace.
My prayers and condolences to this family during this transition Period. I was blessed to have known her.
My friend for many, many years. I will always love you. You were my secret keeper and my prayer partner. My sincerest condolences to the family. Now rest well my friend. I will not say goodbye but see you later in Christ.
My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Bowman family, Live River family and beloved friends. Mariah and I were in the graduating class, of T. W. Josey, 72. I will always remember her gentle smiles with a calm and quiet speaking voice. I am grateful that we kept in touch periodically over the years, Mariah. May you sleep and rest peacefully in the comfort of our Savior's arms. May your beautiful and sweet memories forever live in our hearts until we see you again.
Mariah and I graduated from TW Josey in 1972. May the grace of God surround you as you lay Mariah to rest.
To the family of Mariah my heartfelt condolences I was a classmate of Mariah at T W Josey class of '72, and over the years even after graduating we stayed in touch with each other. She was like a sister I never had. She was smart and quick on her feet, and often times I would call her for advice and she never let me down. I will miss her deeply, but they have added one incredible angel to Gods team. To the family thank you for sharing Mariah with all of us. I love you my sweet sister.
I worked with Mariah at SRS- DOE site Aiken, SC. I gave my sincere condolences and sympathy to her family. She will truly be missed. Sylvia Ellis
Rest in peace, old friend.
Joseph T Lyons
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.