Jim L. Bowles

Jim L. Bowles passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday morning July 12, 2026, surrounded by his wife of 66 years, Julia Watkins Bowles and their two sons, Bill E. Bowles and James C. “Chip” Bowles.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Crown Hill Cemetery at 11:00 am on Friday, July 17, 2026, officiated by Rev. Tim Olds.The family will receive friends from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. at Mathews Funeral Home on Gillionville Rd. in Albany. A procession will depart the funeral home at 10:45 a.m. for Crown Hill Cemetery.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, Ernest Covington Bowles, Nancy Elizbeth Howells, and half-brother, Bobby King.

Jim was born in Wilmington NC on August 14, 1939. He later moved to Albany, GA with his family in 1956. He attended Albany High School where he met the love of his life, Julia “Judy” Watkins on a “blind date” at First Methodist Church.

Following graduation, Jim attended Mercer University in Macon GA, while Judy attended Wesleyan College. They married on September 12, 1959.

They welcomed their first son, Bill, on September 25, 1960, followed by their second son, Chip, on January 15, 1965.

The Bowles family was blessed to raise their children in the 900 block of Third Ave. Judy’s parents, Harold Ernest Watkins and Frances Cornell Watkins, lived next door, while uncles, aunts, and cousins lived only a few houses away. The six Watkins grandchildren have often described those years as “growing up in Mayberry” – a treasured time filled with family, neighbors, and lifelong memories.

Jim began his Career at Hav-A-Tampa, where he worked alongside Judy’s grandfather, Joseph Cornell. He later joined Watkins Lumber Company, managing its retail lumber and hardware division. After the passing of Harold Watkins, Jim pursued his lifelong passion for construction.

Chip attended LaGrange College. His love and knowledge of soccer led him to many opportunities coaching and referring soccer in the south. Chip soon joined his father, and the JL Bowles Construction Company was born. Jim and Chip have helped so many families along the way with beautiful homes and additions. Chip continues to work in construction with the ONVICO Construction Co.

Bill attended Auburn University, Class of 1982. He returned to Albany to peruse his passion for Quail Hunting, Land management, and assisting the next land stewards preserve the quail habitat that he loves. Bill joined Akins Petroleum Co. 6 years ago. He quickly says to everyone how much he loves this company that he works for and his job.

After the boys were grown and started their families Judy devoted her time and passion to her community. She amazingly served as Executive Director of Keep Albany Dougherty Beautiful for 31 years.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Julia Watkins Bowles, sister, Lynn Grigsby, from Marietta GA; his son Bill E. Bowles and wife Tonya; their 4 children they lovingly share, Bill Bowles II, Lauren Tabb (Cody) Ashley, (Grant), and Erika; and his son Chip Bowles and wife, Joy; and the 4 children they loving share Brandon, Sydney, Macy, and Molly.

He is also survived by his cherished great-grandchildren, Avery L. Tabb, Bristol M. Tabb, Olivia “Livi” Hughes, Savannah “Savvy” Jane Rusk, Harlan Thomas, and Liam Thomas, and his poodle Bria.

Jim was a member of First Methodist Church where he taught middle high Sunday School and assisted with the formation of two new young adult Sunday School classes. He was also involved in Home Builders Association of Albany & Southwest Georgia serving as president from 1989 to 1991, then again in 1993-1994.

Jim’s greatest joy outside of his family was horses and fishing the saltwater’s around Carrabelle, Florida. Whether on the water with family or friends, those days brought him peace, happiness, and memories that will be treasured by those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) www.ccaflorida.org in Jim’s memory. Let’s preserve and protect Coastal Saltwater Fishing for the next generations.