Joan Evans Bowen, 102, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away February 7, 2024, in Martinsburg, West Virginia.

The Funeral Service will be held Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 703 N. Market Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Visitation will be Friday, February 16, 2024, in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Joan Evans Bowen lived a rich and fulfilling life dedicated to education, family, faith, and exploration. Born in Manchester, Iowa, in 1922, she pursued her passion for teaching, earning both a B.A. in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and the University of Northern Colorado, respectively.

She was married to Dr. Robert W. Bowen, Joan raised two children, Dr. Robert and Dr. William, and found joy in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her career spanned 32 years in education, where she served as an elementary school teacher, Title 1 reading teacher, and principal, embodying her commitment to learning and nurturing young minds.

Joan’s devotion extended beyond the classroom; she was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church, where she contributed her time to various church activities and served on the church council. Her love for travel allowed her to connect with people worldwide, while her appreciation for nature kept her grounded, spending cherished moments outdoors, particularly at Beall Woods.

Even in her later years, Joan remained an inspiration to her family and community, admired for her humor, wisdom, and unwavering determination. Though she is preceded in death by her parents and husband, her legacy of passion, service, and love lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Joan’s family.