The world became a brighter place on Dec. 29, 1935 when Martiel Bowden was born in Zwolle. Growing up as a minister’s daughter, her father inspired her to be a genuine, loving and caring person. On June 15, 1957, she married the love of her life, Donald Wayne Bowden, and shared 55 beautiful years with him. Her greatest source of joy was her family and the love they continue to share together. Martiel is survived by her four children, Gloria Daune Gleaton, Andra LaVonne Wesley, Joe Darren Bowden and Peter Dwayne Bowden, and their spouses and partners, respectively: Dick Gleaton, Scott Wesley, Elizabeth Wolfson, and Kelly Bowden. Her grandchildren are Jessica Wesley- Rock and partner, Ryan Rock, Heather Cozad and husband, Traber Cozad, Sarah Gleaton, Ryan Wesley, Matt Bowden and Peri Bowden. Her great-granddaughter is Riley Annabelle Rock. Martiel’s career reflected her giving spirit and was one dedicated to serving others. While living in Shreveport, she was a secretary for Sunset Acres Baptist Church. After moving to Dallas, she was an administrator for Tejas Girl Scout Council and Scottish Rite Hospital. Anyone lucky enough to have met Martiel quickly realized that a higher plane of love is possible. She was simply an inspiration to us all – to be better, to try harder, to treat each other with respect and love, and to appreciate the most important things in life. Memorial services were held Saturday, September 13th at 2 p.m. at Lake Highlands Baptist Church, Dallas, Texas. Memorial donations may be given in Martiel’s honor to Scottish Rite Hospital online at http://community.tsrhc.org/ or by calling 214-559-7650.
July 17, 2026
