Mrs. Iris Ann Bowden, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, at the home of her daughter.
Iris was born on Chincoteague on Feb. 2, 1940, to Robert E. Cherrix Sr., and Lillie Mae (Jones) Cherrix.
She is survived by her two loving daughters, Gina Williams (Daniel) and Lisa Hall; two cherished grandchildren, Sheana Bowden and Alanna Hall; one brother, Robert E. Cherrix Jr. (Mollie); a beloved aunt, Ernestine Daisey; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A 1958 graduate of Chincoteague High School, Iris served as class treasurer and remained active in that role for decades. She was instrumental in planning all of her class reunions and monthly gatherings, staying faithfully connected with her classmates until her passing.
Iris married her husband, Eugene Bowden, at the age of 18 on Jan. 10, 1959, at the First Baptist Church in Pocomoke City. She began her married life living with her mother-in-law while vaccinating chickens. She later worked in the office at Ocean Builders on Chincoteague and as a supply clerk at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility. Though these roles were brief, she found her true calling as a full-time homemaker following the birth of her daughters.
Iris and her husband shared a love for travel, making many memorable trips with the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company to New York City. In later years, she enjoyed traveling with her parents, brother, and children, and she also went on two cruises with family and friends.
After the passing of her husband, Iris found comfort in the community. She was a regular at McDonald’s, where she spent many hours socializing with local friends. She also enjoyed the fellowship at the Manna Café and attending local bingo nights.
Her life centered around her family; she was deeply involved in her daughters’ lives and later played an important role in helping to raise her grandchildren. Her legacy of love, laughter, and selfless support lives on through them.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Eugene Bowden, and by her parents, Robert and Lillie Cherrix.
Iris was a longtime member of Union Baptist Church and was baptized there in 1950. Her faith, warmth, and sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
A service honoring her life was held at 2 p.m. at Union Baptist Church on June 23, with a viewing one hour prior to the service. Family and friends were invited to visit with the family following the service at her daughter’s residence.
Services were entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, Inc., on Chincoteague Island. Condolences may be made online at www.salyerfh.com
