Dorothy Bowie

Dorothy M. Bowie, 77, of Bolingbrook, IL, transitioned peacefully on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.

Born on December 24, 1947, in Biloxi, Mississippi, to M.Z. and Lula Bizzell (nee Cole), Dorothy was the youngest of three children. She grew up alongside her two older brothers, Oscar and Richard. Her family eventually made their home in Racine, Wisconsin, where she attended William Horlick High School from 1963-1966.

Dorothy’s journey into motherhood began with the birth of her beloved son Derek on September 12, 1968. In 1973, she relocated with her family to Bolingbrook, Illinois, a place that would become both her home and her mission field. On October 9, 1981, she married the love of her life, Deacon Timothy “Tim” Bowie of Wisner, Louisiana. Through this union, she embraced three bonus children—Vincent, Alondria, and Carol—and became the heartbeat of a blended family grounded in faith.

In 1986, Dorothy and her husband, alongside fellow deacons and lay members, co-founded New Hope Baptist Church in Bolingbrook. For 39 years, she faithfully taught Sunday School, nurturing the spiritual lives of generations of children. Her heart was in discipleship and alongside her husband she would teach others how to live a Christ-like life and how to follow the word of God. Her devotion to the Lord was evident not only in church but in every part of her life. 

Dorothy worked at Rockwell International for 33 years, where she was known for her consistency and reliability. Outside of work and church, she enjoyed staying active—especially through water aerobics and dancing. She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels when she was able, helping deliver food to seniors in need.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Timothy “Tim” Bowie; four children: Derek (Melanie) Meeks of Rocky Mount, NC, Vincent “Vince” Bowie of Des Moines, IA, Alondria “Tion” Bowie of Destrehan, LA, and Carol (Jerry) Bowie-Cotton of Hahnville, LA; eleven grandchildren: Devin Cole, Sydney Meeks, Carez Josiah “CJ” Cotton, Jada Bowie-Coleman, Shelby Meeks, Kaden Bowie, Savion Meeks, Zoya Coleman, Jadion Cotton, Cameron Bowie, and Maxwell Bowie; and one great-grandchild, Arleigh Richardson.

She is now reunited in eternal rest with her parents, M.Z. and Lula Bizzell, and her two beloved brothers, Oscar and Richard Bizzell.

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