In Loving Memory of Our Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, & Friend Barbara Amelia (Bradley) Bowers October 9, 1929 – October 14, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Barbara Amelia (Bradley) Bowers on October 14, 2024, at the age of 95. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, on October 9, 1929, to Ruby Bradley, a professional boxer ranked #3 in the world in 1931 and one of the first African Americans to lead the sport in the 1920s and 1930s, and Mary (Mae) Foster-Reed, Barbara spent much of her life in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She was lovingly raised by Ivernia R. St. John and shared a close bond with her sister, the late Frances R. (Bradley) Woods of Springfield, MA.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 75 years, Roscoe Bowers, and their six children: Diane (Bowers) Sadberry, Karen Bowers, David Bowers, William Bowers, Kevin Bowers, and Linda (Bowers) Catwell. She was a proud grandmother to more than a dozen grandchildren, a great-grandmother to many, and a cherished friend to those who knew her.
Barbara’s presence could light up any room. Her smile and laughter were infectious, spreading joy to everyone she encountered. Her life was centered around love for her family and her unwavering devotion to Roscoe. Together, they built a home full of faith and love. While Roscoe served in the Navy from 1948 to 1952, traveling globally to protect his country, Barbara kept the family strong, raising their children and ensuring their home was in order. Their love letters spoke of an enduring bond that transcended distance and set an example for all who knew them.
Barbara was a woman of immense strength and determination, never one to give up in the face of adversity. Her resilience and unwavering spirit inspired everyone around her, and she lived her life with a sense of purpose and commitment to her family and community.
Barbara lived in West Medford for over 60 years, and during that time, she cared deeply for the children in her neighborhood. She made sure they were safe each morning, ensuring they got onto the school bus. This daily act of kindness became so well-known that she was featured in the Medford paper, though she did it simply out of the goodness of her heart. Her community valued her deeply for her selflessness and compassion.
After Roscoe’s retirement, they spent part of each year in Michigan, where they enjoyed gardening and cultivating plants. The food they grew was shared with both their family and the community, giving back what they couldn’t use themselves. This annual tradition reflected their ongoing commitment to generosity and service.
Barbara’s life was deeply rooted in her faith. She had a profound devotion to the Bible, and her daily prayers in Psalms were her source of strength and guidance throughout her life. Her belief in God shaped every part of her being, and she lived out her faith through prayer, reading the Bible, and sharing her love for God with her family and those around her. Her faith was not just a personal journey but a legacy she passed on to her children and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of kindness, love, and selflessness.
Barbara also found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She adored flowers and the way they filled her home with warmth and fragrance. She was an accomplished artist in both opera and gospel singing, sharing her talents in church and local performances, where she often received standing ovations for her beautiful voice. Her creative spirit extended to knitting, crocheting, sewing, and embroidery, as she lovingly crafted items for her family and friends.
Barbara could walk for miles, even from Medford to Cambridge, and during her walks, she was always friendly and sociable, ensuring that those she met along the way were uplifted by her presence.
Though she is no longer with us in body, Barbara’s spirit remains ever-present. Her life was a testament to love, kindness, selflessness, faith, and extraordinary strength. Her legacy will continue to inspire her family and friends, reminding us of the enduring power of love, faith, and determination.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:7-8.
Visiting hours will held in the Dello Russo Funeral Home 306 Main St. Medford, MA, on Saturday, October 26, from 11AM-1PM, followed by a funeral service in the funeral home beginning at 1PM. Relatives and friends are invited. Interment will be private.