John Alexander Bowen was born in Dunn, NC, on March 3, 1987, to Betty Ann and the late Ronnie Bowen and his adoring older sisters, Nada and Holly.
He grew up on his family's farm near Erwin enjoying all the pleasures a young child could imagine- exploring the woods, playing alongside his best bud, Scott Collier, 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, 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.
John graduated from Triton High School and attended Campbell University, Fayetteville Technical institute, and Fayetteville State University. His most recent goal was to continue his education in the field of ministry, perhaps as a counselor or in some area where he could share his gift of helping people through their struggles at work, on a personal level, or whatever needs they possessed.
John had an early interest in firefighting. He joined the Westarea Volunteer fire department at the age of 16 and began developing skills that would enhance his career goals in the years to come. He joined the City of Fayetteville Fire Department. He became a part of the brotherhood of firefighters- encouraging, loving, and supporting each other, the same as a close knit family. His life impacted so many of the members of the department from the top ranks to the newest recruits. John rose to the rank of Battalion Chief. Chief Bowen was a humble servant, and was always eager to assist individuals in need, and his passion to serve the City of Fayetteville was shown each day he came to work. He was a model example that many firefighters and officers want to emulate, and he would spend time pouring his life into others to see them succeed. His fellow firefighters pulled together in his honor when he was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021 and have followed his journey with support and love.
