Sean Bowers - Cremation Society of Virginia

Sean Bowers

March 2, 1964 - April 23, 2026

A Good Man Goes Home

Norfolk ~ Sean Bowers left us on April 23, 2026 – much too early for his family and friends – but quickly, cleanly, in keeping with his soul purpose and sense of mission. An advocate for social justice, poet, writer, outspoken helper and person of faith, those who love him know he followed the Light Home, and suspect he has already begun on his next Assignment.

How to lose a husband, a son, a friend like Sean?

His wife, Kimberly Gales, whom he adored, returned the favor. She said Sean introduced her to his friends around the world, took her bicycle riding in the State Park, to poetry Open Mics, and encouraged her to get back to creating art and jewelry.

Their dog, “Moses,” (named after Harriet Tubman) misses the large chest she slept on as a puppy and their special walks. His mother, Judith Stevens, misses his easy humor, the quick one-liners that made her laugh, his sweet heart and loving nature. His best friend, Dave Ford, his basketball buddies and poet friends, miss his kindness and loyal friendship. His father, Bryan Bowers, laments their lost moments together. His stepfather, Jack Callan, is amazed at the enduring closeness of Sean’s relationship with his mother.

His relatives miss his ready laughter, his gifts of music CDs and bicycles – his love of surprises. His grandchildren miss his unqualified support of their endeavors, his positive outlook, and his ready encouragement. His colleagues at the New Journal & Guide will miss his irrepressible spirit.

Generous to a fault, his donated bone grafts, skin grafts and a valiant heart valve will all find good homes.

How fortunate we were to have known and loved Sean Camile Bowers for as long as we did! Go with God, Dearest.

Sonnet: On the Death of a Best Friend

I cannot think of losing you just now –

Not while there’s Springtime greening In the leaf –

Not while Spring’s verdant scent is on the bough –

Not while your presence mingles with my grief.

I see you in the changing of the trees –

In early April’s dusky velvet rose.

Sweet olive wafts so gently on the breeze,

And scarlet sage is blazing as he goes!

‘Twas you who showed me honeysuckle bloom,

And pointed out the mourning dove’s soft call.

Your friend, the mockingbird, sings through the gloom

A rooftop eulogy for one and all.

Perhaps in time, but do not ask me how –

I cannot think of losing you just now…

Judith Stevens

Cremation Society of Virginia

Mercedes Cobham

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A Good Man Goes Home Norfolk ~ Sean Bowers left us on April 23, 2026 – much too early for his family and friends – but quickly, cleanly, in keeping with his soul purpose and sense of mission. An advocate for social justice, poet, writer, outspoken helper and person of faith, those who love him…

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Dear Judith, My deepest sympathies on the loss of Sean. I pray that his soul will rest in peace. May you find comfort in that many are praying for you, your family and all your loved ones. Christ's Peace

To Kim and Ms. Judith: Please accept my sincere condolences to the passing of Sean. I had the opportunity and pleasure to teaching and coaching Sean at Virginia Beach Jr. High School. I followed Sean throughout his high school and college career. I've always been proud of Sean and all his accomplishments. He constantly would indicate that he was going to go to college on a basketball scholarship and finish. He accomplished his gaol and did very well afterwards in his career and adult life. I had the opportunity to coach many student/athletes during my career and Sean was one of many that made me proud to be his coach. He not only was a exceptional hard working athlete, he endeavored to help people as well. I will miss our conversations over the years and his energy to make this a better world. Sean is gone but he will never be forgotten. Love you big guy!

Dear Judith, My heart is with you during this unimaginable loss. Although I did not have the blessing of knowing Sean personally, through the words shared here and through knowing you, it is clear that he was a deeply loving, thoughtful, and extraordinary soul who touched many lives. Your beautiful tribute reflects such love, closeness, and understanding between mother and son. Thank you for sharing him with all of us in this way. May you feel surrounded by love, support, and the Light that Sean so clearly carried throughout his life. With heartfelt sympathy and prayers, Sheila

My condolences to the family. A friend of Judith who has been and continues to be a wonderful inspiration to me.

Dear Judith, I am saddened by your profound loss of your son and buddy, Sean. The grace and courage you show in the face of such deep sorrow and tremendous loss are truly inspiring. To my great regret, I only came to know Sean, this remarkable human being, after his passing, through what I have read and from you. What a loss our world has suffered! We are all blessed for him having been on this earth, making a difference to so many through his advocacy and life, even in his passing. There is no doubt that a soul of this caliber still has much to do and has already begun his next mission. May his legacy continue to live on. With heartfelt sympathy, Chithra

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.