Alma Mary "Bitsie" Stander Bowman, a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish and a recent resident of Carriere, Mississippi, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, in Slidell, Louisiana, at the age of 95, while surrounded by her loving family.

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered as a loving and loyal wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, who cherished her family.

Friday, we will gather to celebrate the incredible life of Bitsie Bowman—our beloved mom, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Known to so many as "Aunt BB," she was the heart of our family and a source of love and light to everyone who knew her. Her warmth, kindness, and generosity touched countless lives, leaving behind a memory we will always cherish.

She was a loving wife and daughter, always putting her family first. Whether it was caring for a loved one in need or providing comfort during difficult times, she gave her heart fully and without hesitation. She was the steady presence we all relied on, offering her strength and compassion to those around her. Bitsie's life was filled with both hardships and blessings, but through it all, she remained steadfast in her faith. She always trusted in the Lord, turning to Him in prayer each day. She prayed the rosary faithfully and found peace and joy in attending Mass. Her unwavering devotion to God continues to be an inspiration to all who knew her and a cornerstone of her life. Her faith extended into every aspect of her life, especially her service to the church. Bitsie was devoted to helping wherever she could, always ready to lend a hand or share her gifts to make a difference. Her rich prayer life and deep love for her faith remind us all of the power of grace and kindness.

One of Bitsie's greatest joys was cooking for others. Her kitchen was a place of love, filled with the aromas of delicious meals prepared for friends, family, and anyone in need. Whether it was a family dinner, or a dish delivered to a neighbor or the church, she showed her care through every bite.

She also had a deep love for the outdoors. Gardening was her passion—she found peace and happiness in nurturing her plants, just as she nurtured all of us. Her love for nature was a reflection of her own spirit: beautiful, resilient, and life-giving.

Bitsie had a special love for dogs. They brought her so much joy and companionship, and she cared for them with the same tenderness and kindness she showed to everyone around her. Her connection with her furry friends was just one more way her love radiated out into the world.
She was endlessly creative, sharing her talents in so many ways. From singing songs that lifted our spirits to crafting and woodworking, she poured her heart into creating beauty. Her hands were never idle, and the things she made are treasures we will hold onto forever.
To know Bitsie was to feel loved, and her presence made every moment brighter. Though we will miss her deeply, we are comforted by the memories of her laughter, her hugs, and the countless ways she showed her love.

Thank you, Aunt BB, for being the heart of our family, for your endless love, and for teaching us what it means to live a life of kindness, grace, and unwavering faith. You will always be with us, in our hearts and in the way we care for one another. Rest peacefully with the Lord,
knowing you are loved more than words can ever express.

Bitsie was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Calvin Houston "Red" Bowman; a daughter, Kathleen Bowman Daniels; parents, William Lewis and Mary Guerra Stander; siblings, Bill Stander, Sam Stander, Lee Stander, Kate Robin; and a son-in-law, James B. "Rudy" Vollentine.

She is survived by a daughter, Kristie Bowman Vollentine; grandchildren, Jeanne Robin, Kathie Robin, Bea J. Vollentine Girard (Mario); great-grandchildren, Lacie, JoLeen, and Skylar; nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and the Sisters in Christ prayer group.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 2508 Bayou Road, St Bernard LA 70085.

Visitation will begin at 10:00am followed by the Memorial Mass at 11:00am.

Burial will be in St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery.