Louise Bowers died peacefully at home on August 10, 2026, with family by her side.
Louise was born in Milledgeville, GA, on July 11, 1920, one of four children. As a child of the depression, she learned early in life what it was to struggle, an experience that left her with an indomitable spirit, an appreciation for the simple joys of life, and a deep commitment to her family and community.
In her younger years, she was a gifted athlete at a time when that was unusual for girls. She excelled at basketball. She maintained that love of athletics — both participating and watching — throughout her life.
She married her first husband, Luke Bramlitt, in 1940, and they settled in Jacksonville, FL, where Luke ran a successful construction business, and Louise ran a happy home, raising two children, Brenda and Dwight (Bubba). Unfortunately, Luke suffered an untimely death at the age of 42, leaving Louise to raise her children — then 16 and 14 — on her own.
Louise supported the family by working as a secretary, eventually for the superintendent of schools for Duval County. During her decades-long career with the school system, she gained the respect and admiration of her colleagues for her hard work and wonderful way with people. Her retirement party was attended by hundreds. During this time, she met her second husband, Perkins Bowers, who worked as a printer. They eventually moved from Jacksonville to Keystone Heights, FL, where they built a home on a lake and a happy life, blending their two families. They retired there and enjoyed hosting many family celebrations.
In 2002, Louise and Perk relocated to Fernandina Beach, FL, an idyllic town that they both considered the favorite place they ever lived. They benefited from wonderful neighbors who became dear friends. Perk passed away in 2007, but Louise remained active in the community.
She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Fernandina Beach and also attended water aerobics classes religiously at the Atlantic Recreation Center. Louise gave up driving when she turned 100, trading her car for a golf cart, which she and Brenda drove (occasionally with great grandchildren along for the ride) around town and into Fort Clinch. She enjoyed excellent health into her old age — likely attributable to her near-daily exercise routine into her 105th year and her positive mental outlook. She made a lasting impression on those she met, not simply because of her longevity, but because of her generous spirit and the way she lived her life, remaining open to new ideas and new experiences.
Louise's greatest joy was her family, and she was blessed with beloved siblings, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She treasured visits to her son Bubba and his wife Sue’s farm in Georgia. She also loved family gatherings in Fernandina, which frequently revolved around her delicious cooking. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren marveled that their Mama Lou (Lulu) continued to host them, well past her 100th birthday, for the best home-cooked fried chicken, turnip greens, broccoli salad, corn pudding, blueberry pie, and fresh coconut cake, just to name a few of her specialties.
In her later years, she enjoyed a special bond with her devoted daughter Brenda, who lived three blocks away. They were daily companions, venturing out on short road trips, cooking meals together, and enjoying a ritual of afternoon coffee and sweets over conversation about the world's problems and their personal blessings.
Louise's family offers special thanks to her wonderful neighbors, who regularly checked in on her and offered a hand, whether it was taking out her garbage or building a handrail; and to Louise's loving team of caregivers who looked after her during her final months. The dedicated team made sure that Louise's final days were filled with laughter, dignity, and comfort.
Louise's funeral will be held on Saturday, August 29th, at 11:00 AM, at First Presbyterian Church in Fernandina Beach, FL. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mahaber: Partners for Ethiopia or your favorite charity in remembrance of Louise.
Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com
OXLEY-HEARD FUNERAL DIRECTORS