Following a brief battle with illness, life’s wondrous journey came to an end for Walter Thomas Bowler, 59, when he made his transition on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond.

A son of James H. Bowler Jr. and the late Julia Bowler–Stith, he was born Jan. 20, 1954, in Crewe. He joined the First Nottoway Baptist Church at an early age and attended Nottoway County public schools.

Walter was a great painter. He loved to hunt, play softball and fish. “Goat” orc “Teddy Bear,” as he was lovingly referred to by his friends, loved to entertain and had a host of friends who will cherish his memory.

Walter is survived by his beloved wife, Kim Bowler of Burkeville; a son, Andre Haskins; a daughter, Whitney Bowler; father James “Bill” Bowler Jr. and step-mother Gwen; stepfather Benjamin Stith Jr.; three brothers, Alonza Bowler Sr. (Cherly), Nelson Bowler (Audrey) and Benjamin Stith III (Carrie); a sister, Angela Delaney (Steve); two stepsons, Paul Revels and Christopher Gray; four grandchildren; five aunts; one uncle; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A funeral will be held at noon, Saturday, Feb. 16, at First Nottoway Baptist Church in Crewe.