In loving memory of our founding pastor,

Thomas Edward Bowen

(August 2, 1933 ~ October 20, 2024 (age 91),

and his loving wife Mrs. Margaret Bowen

(March 19, 1936 ~ November 27, 2024 (age 88).

Pastor Bowen was born in Columbia, SC and reared in the little town of Turbeville. He was saved at the age of 22 and surrendered his life to serve the Lord in the ministry several years later. In October 1967, he was called to the pastorate at Cherryvale Baptist Church, where he and his wife, Margaret, served faithfully. From day one, Brother Ed was determined that Cherryvale would be a church that welcomed everyone, without regard to race, culture, or denominational background. Not an easy decision at that time, but one greatly blessed by God. To this day, Cherryvale Baptist Church is known as “The Church Where Everyone Is Welcome”. The Bowen’s have been blessed with five children, 15 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren.