Ellen Irene Bowie

Ellen Irene (Rene) Bowie was born on January 29, 1944, to the late Irene E. and Roland A. Bowie at Freedmen’s Hospital now called Howard University Hospital in Washington D.C.

Rene was baptized at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and faithfully attended weekly services until her failing health. She was educated in the Prince George’s County Public School System, graduating from Fairmont Heights High School in 1962. Rene began her career at Sears Roebuck & Company on October 21, 1967. She began working for the U.S. Postal Service and retired after 35 years in January 2003. Alongside her primary career she remained active in retail, holding part time positions at Sears Roebuck & Company, JC Penny, and Mademoiselle Shops.

Rene was an extraordinary seamstress who could sew absolutely anything from an early age. Widely known for her gorgeous, custom-made fancy dresses, she always paired her dresses with towering four-inch heels that she kept in meticulous condition. She also was the keeper of the family’s first Singer Sewing Machine. This brings a wave of nostalgia to those of us of a certain age. Beyond her talent with a needle and thread, Rene loved collecting the latest gadgets. Out of five siblings, she was the only one who could afford to be FREE with her money, while remaining remarkably frugal. Above all, she worked exceptionally hard to earn every bit of that freedom, proof that her lifestyle was built on pure dedication.

You could depend on Rene for a good old house party on any weekend on Alabama Avenue, S.E. Rene also was known for her legendary homemade rolls, cakes, and pies. Her holiday baking was worth the wait, and she generously shared her treats with everyone.

Rene’s greatest pride and joy was the home she built on the Bowie Family property in 1991, which she lovingly maintained until her health declined. She took great pleasure in caring for her 4.3 acres of property by meticulously mowing the lawn, planting vibrant flowers, and keeping the grounds immaculate. Rene’s caring nature extended well beyond her property;

she also was a devoted caregiver. Rene cared for her mother until her death in 2004, as well as her Aunt Fannie and Cousin Junior until their deaths.

Rene was extremely independent and although she never married or had children, she was the “bonus Mom” to all her nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces—many of whom lived with her at one time or another. Because of her caring nature, Rene was everyone’s go-to person for anything (housing, food, money, and yes, especially money). Her generosity knew no bounds; Rene also helped many outside the immediate family.

Even though Rene could be a little rough around the edges and unapologetically honest, underneath that exterior, she had a heart of gold! I think that we can all agree that after so many years of giving to others, that BIG, BEAUTIFUL HEART OF GOLD FINALLY GAVE OUT!

Rene is survived by two sisters Pearl P. Hawkins (Tootie); Vivian J. Pickeral (Vickey); one brother-in-law (Michael); one sister-in law Marie Bowie. She is preceded in death by her parents Roland & Irene Bowie; one brother Roland A. Bowie (Bunny); and one sister Teresa A. Bowie. She is also survived by one nephew (Rodney); four nieces (Dynelle, Shonita, LeSean, Talisha), and a whole host of great nieces & nephews that were her pride and joy; cousins; and family and friends. Best friend Theresa Alexander (Tee) deceased November 2023 & Sister friend Beverly Waters (Sis).

TO KNOW HER WAS TO LOVE HER!

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, https://sjeclinton.org/giving