Judith "Judy" Ann Bowler

Judith “Judy” Ann Bowler, 80, passed away on May 25, 2024, at her home in Delton, Michigan.   

She was born on November 23, 1943, to Merten and Stella (Fogle) (Thomson) Gillett in Battle Creek, Michigan. She attended school at Bellevue High School. 

In 1978, Judy was the first adult in Calhoun County to complete vocational school to be a nurse's aide, as vocational school was previously only for high schoolers. Afterward, she worked for Arrowood Nursing Center for 15 years, first as a dietary aide then as a cook. 

Judy was an excellent crafter, sewer, crocheter, and knitter; she also liked to color. She collected plants, Beanie Babies, and most importantly, animals. A natural born caretaker, Judy rescued many different types of animals including opossums, crows, raccoons, and rabbits. She enjoyed a good find at a garage sale or at Goodwill. Judy made delicious homecooked meals, especially using her beloved pressure cooker. She loved to go camping with her family and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Judy is survived by her children David (Laurel) Payne of Athens, Michigan, Shirley (Doug) Zeeryp of Bellevue, Michigan, Keith Payne of Delton, Michigan, Tracy (Chuckie Grandstaff) Payne of Battle Creek, Michigan, Brenda Criagmyle of Battle Creek, Michigan, Cory Bowler (Tonya Raymor) of Delton, Michigan, Cara Bowler of Athens, Michigan; 17 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and sister Virgina Shifflett. 

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter Deborah A. Hamilton; granddaughter April Birman; siblings Cora Barlond, Lois Bennett, Lawrence Thomson, David Thomson, and Marie Gray; and her parents. 

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 30, 2024, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at Kempf Family Funeral & Cremation Services, 2838 Capital Ave SW, Battle Creek, Michigan 49015
     

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, 1:00 pm at the Kempf Family Funeral Home Battle Creek, Battle Creek, Michigan, with Pastor Steve Olmstead officiating. Burial will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorials are suggested to the Pleasant View Family Church.