Heaven gained its biggest prayer warrior. Virgie "Jo" Bowlin left this earthly home for her heavenly home on January 26, 2025. She's finally free from pain and can breathe with ease without "that dang ole oxygen," as she would call it. She's united with her "Sweet Jesus," as she would say, whom she served and shared about so faithfully.

She was 84 years old and was born in Marshall, NC, on February 15, 1940, to Major and Pearl Wilson.

If there was ever someone who had a direct line to heaven, it was Jo. That woman could pray! She was a trusted prayer warrior, whether it was a challenging test, a difficult day at work, or sick great-grandbabies. We all have access to Jesus, but somehow, Jo's prayers ring louder. Even in her final days, when others came to visit and pray for her, she'd turn it around and start praying for them, interrupting right in the middle of their prayer—that was just who she was, always putting others first.

She worked in the textile and service industries for many years, always smiling for others and taking every opportunity to tell them of her love for Jesus. She was selfless, always putting others before herself, and an example of what it meant to be a follower of Christ.

She loved to garden, and it bloomed with the same love she poured into her family and friends. She was the true definition of what it means to be Jesus' hands and feet—always serving, always loving, always giving second chances. She loved Sunday School, worship services, and supporting the ReNew Recovery ministry. She always encouraged those she met regardless of where they were in their journey of life.

She was a dedicated Christian wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.   She leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Kenneth Bowlin, son Roger Robinson and daughter-in-law Cathy Robinson; grandchildren Kenzie Lovingood (Branham), Kacy Robinson (Lindsey); great-grandchildren Anderson, Wilson, Robinson, Makyla, Jaxon, Hudson, sister, Nadine Ward; many nieces and nephews and special family friend Bonnie Davis.

The family will have a Celebration of Life service, Monday, February 10, 2025 at First Baptist Church Sweetwater (lower auditorium) beginning at 6:00 pm. Jo wanted everyone to come together just like a reunion to sing, talk about her Jesus, share stories, and yes, to eat together as one big family. Though not requested, any memorials should be sent to First Baptist Church Sweetwater, 303 Wright St, Sweetwater, TN 37874 for the church "Finish the Vision" fund or to ReNew Recovery Ministry at the same address. Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements.  holleygamble.com