Ellijay, Georgia - William Arthur "Art" Bowman, age 89, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on June 25, 1936, in Rockmart, Georgia, to William Mitchell Bowman and Daisy Mae Bowman. Art lived a life rich in purpose and faith, and was a cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

A proud Army Ranger during the Korean War, Art dedicated four years of his life to serving his country. After his military service, he spent his professional career working for National Life and Accident Company which later became American General, 41 years. In his retirement from American General, Art found joy in sharing his passion for music and history as a tour guide at the Ryman Auditorium for 13 years. His sharp memory and ability to recall important events and birthdays made him the family's go-to historian, a role he embraced with pride. Art's unwavering faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was saved at Hurt Baptist Church in his 20s and spent many years as a devoted Sunday School teacher, inspiring countless others with his strong beliefs and knowledge of the Bible. For 43 years, he served as a Gideon, distributing Bibles and sharing God's word, deeply impacting his community.

Art's great sense of humor and loving spirit left a mark on all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends who will forever remember his kindness, humor, and love. He will be dearly missed but always lovingly remembered.

Art is survived by his beloved wife of 67 1/2 years, Vivian Elizabeth Bowman; children: Donna Christianson (Todd), Susan Burchell (Tom), and Brent Bowman (Julie); brother, Jimmy Bowman; grandchildren: Kevin Cantrell (Tara), Kristi Beavers (Jonathan), Christian Bowman, and Allie Bowman; great-grandchildren: Kendell Cantrell and Mallory Beavers.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, William Mitchell Bowman and Daisy Mae Bowman; his three brothers, and his son-in-law, Todd Christianson.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shiloh Baptist Church in Mt. Juliet at 1544 Pleasant Grove Road. The family would like to thank Piedmont Hospice Care and Comfort Keepers for their diligent care and compassion.

A funeral service for Art will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Bond Memorial Chapel, officiated by Stephen Young, with interment to follow at Mt. Juliet Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Friday.

Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, N. Mt. Juliet Road and Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615)-773-2663 www.bondmemorial.com