It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Edward Bowman, who left us on October 20, 2025, due to heart and multiple-organ failure, less than one month shy of his 63rd birthday. He made a last-minute, miracle-like rally, but he couldn’t cross the last goal line. Tom’s life was filled with moments of brilliance, joy, and, above all, an undeniable zest for life.
Born on November 16, 1962, in Portsmouth Ohio, Tommy’s athleticism and natural talent were apparent from a young age. Focus, drive, and determination helped him as a gifted athlete who could light up any field, court, or arena. Whether he was running the ball, soaring over high jump bars, or sinking a basket, Tommy’s energy and charisma were magnetic.
He was a four-sport star at Portsmouth Notre Dame (ND) High School, where his athletic ability earned him 13 Varsity Letters and a place among the most talented athletes of his time in Southern Ohio. In football, he rushed for nearly 3,200 yards and scored 56 touchdowns. He was named to five All-America high school football teams, including Parade All-America.
He also earned honors in track and field, setting a 6-10 high-jump school record at an invitational meet that would stand the test of time. In 1980, he earned 1st place in the state of Ohio with a jump of 6-9. In basketball, he was the 1980 SOC Player of the Year, averaging 23.5 points per game.
Though his athletic accomplishments were impressive, it was Tom’s rare gift for making others feel seen and heard. He never met a stranger and had a way of drawing people in with his easy smile, his warmth, and his endless tall tales. No matter how brief your encounter, Tom made sure you walked away with a laugh, a memory, and a sense that you’d just spent time with someone unique.
But behind that infectious smile was a man who carried his own pain. Tom’s journey later in life was not always easy. Despite the challenges he faced, Tom's heart remained tender. In the end, it was that heart that just stopped. He loved fiercely, selfishly, and without hesitation, and those around him were the recipients of that love.
Tom was a proud honors graduate of West Virginia University (WVU), where he earned both a BS and an MS in Sports Management Education. In 1984, he was awarded the Louis D. Meisel Award. The award is presented to a graduating member of the football team who has maintained the highest-grade point average.
He also continued his athletic career at WVU as a football player for the Mountaineers. Elected by more than 100+ team members, he was chosen to be a Tri-Captain in his senior season. Tom played a pivotal role on special teams, helping force and recover a fumble to set up the game-winning touchdown in a thrilling last-second victory over Boston College.
Tom’s contribution to the team went far beyond his athletic ability; he was well-liked and respected by his teammates for his leadership and his positivity. He also found time for track in his sophomore year. In his first meet, with only two days' practice, Tom broke the WVU high jump record with a jump of 6-10 3/4.
Tom leaves behind his devoted wife, Lisa; his stepmother, Yvonne; his sister, Teresa; his brothers, Phil and Lew; children, Abby and Ben; four granddaughters; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy; his father, Lewis; and a nephew, Alexander.
A true lover of life, Tom made a mark on the world around him. Those who loved him will cherish the memories he gave them—the laughter and the stories.
Rest in peace, Tom. Your heart and spirit will be remembered by those you left behind.
A funeral service will be 12:00pm, Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. Peter’s in Chains Catholic Church, 2167 Lick Run-Lyra Rd., Wheelersburg, OH with Pastor, Fr. Smith officiating. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Cemetery. Visitation will be 11:00am until the time of the service at the church.
