Edward Jay "Sonny" Bowden

Edward Jay “Sonny” Bowden, 83, of Mexia passed away February 6, 2026 in Fort Worth surrounded by his loving family. After fighting courageously to stay with his earthly loved ones, he has been made whole in his new home prepared especially for him.

Sonny was born September 15, 1942 in Mexia, Texas to Edward Jay and Vera Mae Rogers Bowden. He remained in Mexia all of his life making a mark on his community. Marrying his true love, Judith Aleen Martin on July 25, 1964, they were later blessed with two sons, Brett Allen and Benjamin Jay Bowden.

Sonny began his working career at the Mexia State School in the laundry department, later moving to the recreation department as a lifeguard and recreational therapist. Retiring in 1995, after 30 years of service from the state, he went to work the next day for Talley Chemical & Supply where he worked until 2004. Always working along with Judy, to provide for his family, he worked after work at Krispy Fried Chicken, hauled hay for others, and kept the church yard for over 10 years.

Family life was very important to Sonny as he made time to take the family camping, hunting, and fishing. His home was always a safe haven for the boys’ friends, where he would coach them in weightlifting out of his gym in the garage.

Having an adventurous spirit, he and Judy would take long motorcycle rides to various places, with Judy serving as the navigator.

Sonny’s faith was an integral part of his life, raising his boys in the First Baptist Church where he was a longtime active member. He took the youth on mission trips and served as deacon for many years. All that he did, he did with a big genuine smile on his face, making everyone feel at ease in his presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Rayford Bowden; and sisters-in-law, Karen Bowden and Bobbie Bowden.

Sonny is survived by his wife, Judy Bowden; sons, Brett and Susie Bowden and Ben and Liz Bowden; grandchildren, Cameron and Lauren Bowden, Kalob Bowden, Racyn and Brynn Langley, Jackson Bowden, Zach Bowden, and Sydney, Mariah, and A.J.; great grandchildren, Bryce, Hallie, Kylie, Kinslie, Indie, Brae’lyn, Von, James, and Karter; and sister-in law and brother-in-law, Mary and Pete Dawkins; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026 in the First Baptist Church with Reverend Robert Blackmon, Dr. Rodney Bowden, and Ed Cox officiating. Visitation with the family will be prior to the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in the Mexia Cemetery. Cameron Bowden, Kalob Bowden, Jackson Bowden, Zach Bowden, Colby Johnson, Eldon Woods, and Clayton McDade will serve as pallbearers.