Leroy Thomas Bowman, Sr., born on July 4, 1934, in (Pisgah) Indian Head, Maryland; to Thomas N. and Nellie A. Bowman. He departed this life on August 4, 2009, at his home in LaPlata, Maryland. Leroy, more affectionately known as Big Boy, Biggie, and Papa, was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Nellie Bowman, sister, Helen G. Smith, brothers, Joseph E. Bowman and William C. Bowman.

Leroy accepted Christ, at a very early age, at Smith Chapel United Method Church in Pisgah, Maryland.

He was educated in the Charles County School System. On May 11, 1955, he joined the United States Navy and received an Honorable Discharge on June 15, 1963. He began his Federal Career at the Naval Ordnance Station in Indian Head, Maryland. He held several occupations including: heavy equipment operator and mechanic. He was also featured in a television commercial operating heavy equipment. In addition, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards, listening to music, singing and dancing.

On August 11, 1955, he was united in marriage to Annette Sylvia Baker. Their union, of 53 years, was blessed with nine (9) children.

He held many occupations, an Explosive worker at the Naval Ordinance Station, heavy equipment operator, in which he was featured in a commercial on TV; and a mechanic. His special interest included: Fishing, Hunting, Playing Cards, Listening to music, (His favorite gospel group was Rev. Flowers), singing and dancing.

Leroy leaves to cherish his memory; his loving wife, Annette, children, Leroy T. Bowman, Jr. (Sheila), Rufus L. Bowman (Sheron), Deborah A. Swann (Michael), Joyce A. Thomas (Jeffery), Darrell E. Bowman (Rosita), Gail L. Robertson (Michael), Ivan R. Bowman (Carolyn) Wanda T. Price, Janice D. Logsdon (Chris), sisters, Elizabeth Butler and Annie Jean Stuckey, brother, Arthur Bowman; fourteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

His viewing will be held on Thursday, August 13th, 10:00am until time of service 12:00noon at Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, MD. Interment Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Arrangements provided by Thornton Funeral Home.