Pamela Sue Bowser Heise, born on March 20, 1947, in Richmond, Indiana, ascended peacefully to her eternal rest on November 22, 2023, in Newport News, VA. She was the cherished daughter of Byron Bowser and Pauline Bratschi, and a beloved sister to her younger brother, Randy Bowser.

Pamela grew up in New Madison, Ohio and attended New Paris Jefferson High School.  After her mother’s passing at the age of twelve, Pam would be found spending time on her family farm, at her father’s tractor store, or at her best friend Joyce’s house.

Pamela’s journey through life was marked by love, family, and service to others. At the tender age of 18, she moved to Richmond, Indiana, to marry Joseph O’Connor, and together they welcomed two children into the world, Stephen and Bonnie. The early years of motherhood laid the foundation for Pamela’s devotion to her family.

On December 31, 1974, Pamela remarried, joining her life with Frank Heise. This union not only brought a life partner, but also two bonus children, Edward and Dawn, and the joy of welcoming their own daughter, Heather. Pamela and Frank shared 48 years of marriage, creating a legacy of love, commitment, and unity.

In 1986, the couple relocated to Norfolk, Virginia, to be closer to Frank’s mother, and later settled in Newport News. Pamela’s compassionate spirit shone brightly during her time working in the cafeteria at Menchville High School, where she left an indelible mark on both staff and students.

Alongside Frank, Pamela ventured into the automobile service and collision industry in the Hampton Roads area, showcasing her resilience and dedication. She continued her journey, following Frank to Charleston, West Virginia for a teaching position, where she attended community college and obtained certification to work at a local pharmacy.

Returning to Newport News a few years later, Pam and Frank purchased a historic home in Huntington Heights, lovingly restoring it to surpass its original glory. Their shared love for the open road led them to purchase a new Harley Davidson, joining local riding groups, including the Hampton Roads Harley Davidson Group and Post #3160 VFW Riders.  She participated in charity events, including Toys for Tots and poker runs for various causes.

A woman of deep faith, Pam rededicated her life to Christ in 2020, becoming an active member of Living Faith Christian Center in Newport News. She volunteered in the hospitality ministry, sharing her love for others through food and participating in church choir events, where her voice resonated with joy and devotion. Pam loved to sing to the Lord and spent many hours every evening looking up hymns, reading music and singing to God. She often said that music comes from one’s heart to God’s ear.  She felt an amazing strength and peace when singing and worshipping before the Lord.

Pamela is predeceased by her parents, Pauline and Byron, her husband, Frank, and her mother-in-law, Ethel. She leaves behind her brother, Randy (Tia), three children, Stephen (Paula), Bonnie (Mike), and Heather (Jason), and two bonus children, Edward (Leisa) and Dawn.

Her legacy extends to nine grandchildren, Mathew, Kristian, Beth, Megan, Christopher, Merrion, Will, Zara Beth, and Eva Celeste, as well as eight great-grandchildren, Xander, October, Alex, Alayna, Logan, Ahnalyse, Regan, and Khalisi.

Pam will be remembered for her unwavering love, joyful spirit, and dedication to family and faith. As we mourn her passing, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of a life well-lived, and may her memory be a source of inspiration and comfort to all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Living Faith Christian Center 14901 Warwick Boulevard Newport News, Virginia 23608 on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 6:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Samaritan’s Purse Ministries online at www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/donate-online or via telephone at 828.262.1980.