John Alexander Bowen was born in Dunn, North Carolina, on March 3, 1987, to Ronnie and Betty Ann Bowen. He grew up on his family’s farm enjoying all the pleasures a young child could imagine—exploring in the woods, playing alongside his best bud Scott, hunting, fishing, and trailing after his dad, whom he adored. His toys were those of children long ago—a shovel, a stick, a rope, a bike, and an unbelievable imagination. John knew the value of hard work as a teen. He had several jobs during that time, including working in the log woods with his Uncle Joe. He learned that perseverance and determination were his best friends in a man’s world. He was a longtime member of Sardis Presbyterian Church in Linden, North Carolina.

He graduated from Triton High School and attended Campbell University, Fayetteville Technical Institute, and Fayetteville State University. His goal was to continue his education to earn a master’s degree in the field of ministry, perhaps as a counselor or in some area where could share his gift of helping people through their struggles at work, on a personal level, or with any needs they possessed.

John had an early interest in firefighting. He joined the West Area Volunteer Fire Department at age 16 and began developing skills that would enhance his career goals in the years to come. He joined the Fayetteville Fire Department and became part of the brotherhood of firefighters, encouraging, loving, and supporting each other the same as a closeknit family. His life impacted many of the members of the department, from the top ranks to the newest recruits. John rose to the rank of battalion chief relatively early in his career. He was a humble servant and was always eager to assist individuals in need. His passion to serve was shown each day he came to work, as well as in his community. He was a model example that many firefighters and officers strive to emulate, and he spent time pouring his life into others to see them succeed.

His fellow firefighters pulled together in his honor when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer and followed his journey with tremendous support. #BowenStrong is still being worn on bracelets to honor his cancer fight and can also be found on Facebook. His family established a fishing tournament to provide scholarships to future firefighters. Chief Bowen was honored as Fire Officer of the Year by the Fayetteville Fire Department after his death.

John is remembered by his fellow man for his constantly repeated motto: Always do the right thing, no matter the cost.