Rev. Dr. Theodis Bowe Jr.

The Reverend, Doctor, Theodis Riddick Bowe Jr.’s Journey ....
The Reverend, Doctor Theodis Riddick Bowe, Jr., lovingly referred to as "Skipper", entered into
eternal rest, in the arms of Jesus Christ on May 6, 2024, after a prolonged illness. Reverend Bowe
peacefully embarked on his final journey at the age of eighty. He departed this world surrounded by a
host of family, friends, and the staff of the Delaware Veterans Home, Milford, DE (VA Center).
Theodis Riddick Jr. was born on April 11, 1944, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina (NC). As the
firstborn of the late Jessie L. Franklin Bowe and Riddick T. Bowe, Sr. The family relocated to DE from NC
in 1951 where Theodis was educated at DE public schools. As the eldest of ten siblings, he grew up in a
Christian home, where he was rooted in biblical principles that would serve as his guiding light. At a
young age, Theodis found his faith and accepted Christ while attending Little Union Baptist Church,
under the leadership of Reverand Milton Gamin. He was later baptized in the spiritual community of
Calvary Baptist of Dover.
Theodis was drafted into the Army in 1965, where he served as an Infantryman and paratrooper
during the Vietnam War. In 1966, Theodis discovered love and married his late wife, Betty Jean Jones
who sadly departed this life in 1997, after a brief illness. In 1976, Theodis became a member of the
Prince Hall Masons, Lodge no. 8 located in Milford, DE. Eventually, Theodis sought support and
fellowship at Union Baptist (Little Union) under the guidance of Reverend Raymond Fisher. It was during
this period that he reconnected with the late Lena V. Giddens, leading to their marriage in 1997. Their
love remained steadfast and unwavering throughout their time together.
Theodis (Skipper), his over-the-road handle, consistently earned accolades for his exceptional
safety record as a long-haul driver during his more than distinguished 25-year career with Perdue Farms.
After retiring from Perdue, he later joined Jor-Lin Bus Service as a chauffeur and enjoyed the opportunity
to serve as the driver for various groups, on trips across the eastern shore. Additionally, his career
included being an instructor at the DE Technical Community College for prospective CDL license holders.
While chairing the Deacon Board and serving as the Sunday School teacher for Little Union,
Reverend Bowe continued to pursue his biblical studies and was awarded a bachelor’s degree in 2008,
his master’s degree in 2010, and even during his time at the VA Center, he remained dedicated to his
studies and was awarded his Doctorate in Biblical Studies while enrolled in virtual classes from Midwest
Christ College & Seminary, before his passing on May 6th.

Reverend, Doctor Theodis Bowe was preceded in death by his wives, Betty J. Bowe and Lena V. Bowe and his loving parents, Riddick and Jessie Lee Bowe, a cherished grandson Brandon Kimbrough, his brother William Bowe, a sister Yvonne Ella McPherson, three sisters-in-law, Felicia Bowe, Rose Marie Bowe, and Marilyn L. Bowe, a niece Ariel
Shockley, a daughter Ovon Giddins Jernigan, and his great nephew Keontae Haynesworth.
Reverend, Doctor Theodis Bowe leaves to mourn his passing, six children: Theodis R. Bowe III,
(Renee), Ellendale, DE; Sara L. Bowe, Gonzales, CA, Kevin Bowe, Ellendale, DE; Keith Paddy (CasSandra)
Chicago, IL; Antonio Bowe, Ellendale, DE; Michael Bowe Ellendale, DE; three granddaughters Ra’jean, Evan Mae
and Nia; four grandsons Theodis, IV (Amanda), Jordan (Shelia), Dylan and Kamerin; three great
granddaughters ila Janai, Liyana Isabel and Phoenix; six brothers, Joseph Bowe (Donna), Bowie, MD;
Everett Bowe (Paulette), Dover, DE; Larry Bowe, Lincoln, DE; Lynnwood Bowe (Janet) Felton, DE;
Louellis Bowe Dover, DE; and Jacques Bowe (Brenda) Lincoln, DE; and one sister Joan Haynesworth,
Waldorf, MD; step son-in-law Ellery Giddins Millsboro, DE; one step son-in-law Aubrey D. Jernigan Sr.
Dover, DE; three granddaughters Aubra D. Jernigan, Eltrese Q. Hopkins; two grandsons Aubrey D.
Jernigan II, Antonin A. Hopkins; 3 great grandchildren Autumn, Arion & Aja Hopkins; and (1) great-great
grandchild.

Reverend, Doctor Theodis Bowe is also survived by a multitude of nieces, nephews, great nephews,
great nieces, step nephews, step nieces, as well as a very large and loving circle of family and friends.