"Thank you for your time and patience." This was Elroy's catch phrase, and he continued to say it to everyone around him until the very end. This phrase explains the man he was.

Elroy Bowens, 79, of Sullivan, died under hospice care at UH Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland on January 12, 2025, from complications of congestive heart failure and dementia. Elroy was born on January 31, 1945, in Huron to the late Roy and Marie (nee Davis) Bowens. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1967 until 1969.

He spent most of his life in the Amherst area. For 30 years, Elroy worked for the City of Amherst Street Department. After retirement, he worked at Black River Schools as a custodian and bus mechanic.

A true man of faith, Elroy worshiped at several area churches throughout his life, including Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Old Fashion Grace Baptist Church, Crossroads Baptist Church, and most recently at Christ Community Church.

Elroy loved tinkering with the vehicles of his family and friends – he was always working on a car in his driveway. He also enjoyed NASCAR.

He is survived by his loving son, Kenneth (Elizabeth) Bowens, of Sullivan and his grandchildren, Joshua (Briana) and Jake Bowens. In addition to his parents, Elroy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Carol (nee Davis); and siblings, Geraldine, Diane, and Daniel.

A private family graveside will take place at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery in South Amherst. Condolences for the Bowens family  can be given at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Gentiva Hospice, 112 Harcourt Road #3, Mt. Vernon, OH 43050 or Holmes County Humane Society, 9260 County Highway 192, Fredericksburg, OH 44627.