Dr. William Delano Bowling

Dr. William Delano Bowling, loving father and grandfather, and long-time educator in the state of Virginia, went to be with the Lord at age 86 on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. He lived a life filled with a strong passion and service towards others. He was known for his kind, loving, and cheerful spirit. Dr. Bowling is survived by his loving wife, Joan Spencer Bowling; four children, Rachel Bowling White (John), Sarah Bowling Gilberston (Joseph). Dr. Daniel Bowling (Laura), Mary Bowling Yerby (Wayne); six grandchildren, Nicholas White, Esq. (Alexandra, Esq.), Stephanie White Ragans (Bryan), Kristin Bowling Corbin (Joey), Dr. Catherine Bowling, Jacob Bowling, Logan Yerby; six great grandchildren, Abel Bowling, Dawson Corbin, Harper Corbin, Lukas White, Hudson Ragans, and Diana Corbin; and three nephews, Dennis Ingram, Steve Ingram, and Timmy Ingram, and many first cousins. He was preceded in death by his son, William Andrew Bowling; beloved granddaughter, Ashleigh Bowling; sister, Diane B. Ingram; and parents, William T. Bowling and Marie W. Bowling. Dr. Bowling was active in the Presbyterian and Baptist churches in Virginia serving as Edler, Deacon, choir member, and Sunday school teacher for many years. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Applied Science from Richmond Professional Institute. He earned his master’s degree in Educational Administration from the College of William and Mary and Advanced Studies Diploma from the University of Virginia. He earned his Doctor of Christian Education and Doctor of Biblical Studies from Andersonville Seminary. He was also ordained as a Baptist Minister. Over the years, Dr. Bowling served as a teacher in the Chesterfield and Poquoson school districts and later served as principal of Gloucester High School, Randolph-Henry High School, Franklin City High School, and Essex High School. He was assistant principal of Warren County High School. Dr. Bowling also served on the Virginia Special Education Advisory Committee and as Director of Education for the Jackson-Field Home Behavioral Services. He was an accomplished musician and enjoyed sharing his talents. He took great joy in teaching the word of the Lord and sharing scripture with others. His legacy is exemplified by a life of servitude and compassion for all. A graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 17, 2024, in Blandford Cemetery 319 S. Crater Road Petersburg, Virginia 23803 with the Reverend Jim Burton officiating.  The family will receive friends Monday, December 16, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory 2033 Boulevard Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Jackson-Feild Episcopal Home https://jacksonfeild.org/