Etha Mae Bowers, of Franklin passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at the Life Care Center of New Market, Virginia.
She was born on March 5, 1930, in Franklin, the daughter of the late Robert and Flossie (Hartman) Hedrick.
Mrs. Bowers was a 1949 graduate of Franklin High School and a member of the Franklin Assembly of God Church.
She had previously worked at the Franklin Garment Company and was a mother and homemaker.
Her passion was gardening, and her skill and green thumb provided the most beautiful flowers and produce that she enjoyed sharing with her family and friends.
She took pride in her family, and she instilled in them the values of hard work, kindness, and a deep appreciation for family and the community. She leaves behind a legacy that is defined by love and hard work.
Her devotion to her family radiated in simple, daily acts of care; her selflessness never sought the spotlight but always made others feel cherished.
She was the matriarch of her family and will forever be remembered for her patience and guidance.
One of her favorite memories was making apple butter with her family. She treasured those times spent together, sharing stories, laughter, and traditions that brought generations closer. Those moments reflected the love she poured into her family and the lasting memories she created with them.
On June 19, 1948, she married Ivan B. Bowers, who preceded her in death on Sept. 2, 2012.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory three daughters, Sue C. Bowers of Lindside, Peggy Wheeler of Bridgewater, Virginia, and Connie Bowers (Christoper Baker) of Franklin; three sons, Nathan Bowers (Debra), David Bowers (Teena) and Stephen Bowers, all of Franklin; eight grandchildren, Billy (Angela) Wheeler, Jason Bowers (Robin), Carla (Ashley) Shinaberry, Justin (Mallory) Bowers, Jennifer Willis, Janel (Tyler) Pancione, Ruth (Timothy) Sims and Matthew (Lacey) Bowers; 19 great-grandchildren, Blake (Abby) Wheeler, Brooke (Justin) Tilson, [Verify and supply missing surname for Cam (Rachel)] Sadie and Jay Bowers, Brandy, Bradey, Breena and Bristol Bowers, Jaxson (Makayla) Bowers, Jagger, Javin, and Jemma Willis, Ivana, Idalynn, Ilizah and Iversen Pancione and Isabella and Abigail Sims; four great-great-grandchildren, Hunter, Weston and Gwyneth Wheeler, and Magnolia Mae Bowers; and nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by a sister, Katherine Starcher (Cecil); and three sons-in-law, Bill Wheeler, Burdette Clausen and Albert Wayne Huffman.
The family wishes to thank the dedicated employees of Life Care Center of New Market and Blue Ridge Hospice for the loving care that was given to her while she was there.
Funeral services were held Tuesday in the chapel of the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin with Pastor Sam Sponaugle officiating. Interment was at the Hedrick Family Cemetery on Halls Hill Road in Franklin.
Memorials may be made to any Pendleton County Rescue Squad.
Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com.
