William “Bill” E. Bowley Sr.

SKOWHEGAN – Bill, 82, died peacefully on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded with the love of his family and close friends.

He was born in Plymouth, the youngest child of Gardiner Hiram Bowley and Beulah Katherine (McClain) Bowley. Bill attended schools in Canaan and Clinton.

He married the love of his life, Brenda Lee Perkins, Dec. 26, 1967, in Skowhegan.

Bill worked many years at the tannery in Clinton and Hartland. He lived in Hartford, Conn. and worked at Pratt & Whitney, owned and operated a gas station, worked at Scovill’s and the Railroad. Bill and Brenda moved back to Maine; he owned and operated a wood cutting business He supplied wood to the KVCAP Heat Program for several years. He enjoyed working alongside his best friend, Terry Hartley.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and faithful in supporting the pastoral ministry of his wife. Bill’s hobbies were hunting, fishing, race car driving, collecting bees’ nests and buck saws.

Bill was predeceased by his parents; brothers Forest Bowley, Linwood Bowley, wife Helen, Erwin Bowley, Lawrence (Pete) Bowley, wife April, and sister, Ethel.

Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years; his son, William Bowley II; grandsons Turner Bowley, Cooper Beaulieu; and nieces, nephews; cousins; and friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday June 20, at 11 a.m. Life Church, 344 Skowhegan Rd., Norridgewock. There was a Celebration of Life at the Poulin-Turner Union Hall, 653 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, following the funeral service. This was a time of reflections, stories and special memories shared with Bill throughout his lifetime. Family and friends were invited to share these special times with his family. Refreshments were served. Burial will be held later. Funeral service was livestreamed.

Please visit Bill’s memorial page at svremembrancecenter.com where condolences, photos and special memories may be shared.

Bill’s family would like to thank those who expressed kind words of support. Your thoughtfulness, calls, text and presence have been a great comfort to our family. Special thanks to Beacon Hospice (Tammy, Lindsey, Judy, Barbara) who tenderly cared for Bill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to

High Praises Lighthouse

P.O. Box 245

Madison, ME 04950

in remembrance of

William Bowley Sr.