Clifton Vernard Bowie of Kernersville, North Carolina transitioned peacefully on Sunday, September 8, 2024 after a brief illness.

Called by family and friends, "Vernard", "Clif", and "Bowie", he was born in Kernersville, NC on October 6, 1937 to Edna Mathews, Sylvester Roebuck, and his adoptive father, Napoleon Bowie, all of whom preceded him in death.

Growing up, he was surrounded by immense love from immediate and extended family and said that his uncles were like brothers to him. His great-grandmother, Carrie, was extremely instrumental in caring for him as a child.

Bowie attended Carver High School and graduated from Winston-Salem State University with a degree in Music Education. He taught music and band at Lexington Middle School in Davidson County. It was there that he met fellow teacher, Pauline Wright of High Point, NC. They married and had two daughters, Tanya Murphy (Kevin) and Paula Bordenkecher (John);  4 grandchildren, Morgan Rackley (Brandon), Nandi Murphy, Kevin Murphy, Jr., and Harper Bordenkecher. They have one great grandchild, Carson Murphy. Pauline Wright Bowie preceded him in death in 2015.

Bowie devoted his life to teaching, performing, and ministering to others through music. He was a member of Goler Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church where he sang in the choir. He was also a long time member of the Twin City Choristers- an all men's choir based in Winston-Salem, a Mason, a member of the Winston Salem State Alumni Chapter, and a Carver High School Alumni class member.

Known to be well dressed and dapper, Bowie was usually seen in full suits and slacks on most occasions. The things that brought him the most joy were being with family and friends, attending events such as  the CIAA Tournament, WSSU football away and local games, and the annual International Black Theatre Festival. He was a strong supporter of his alma mater and faithfully supported WSSU sports. While he was close to his family based in Virginia and Georgia, his local tribe included his cousins, Linda and M.C. Davis and family; Mrs. Minnie Ervin; and friends from his senior community, where he had just been appointed musical director of the glee club.

Bowie had an infectious personality. He loved to laugh and banter with everyone he met. His positive outlook and sunny disposition left a memorable impression. Those from the local credit union, favorite restaurants, and even nurses at the hospital couldn't resist his charm. "We loved him at our office. Mr. Bowie was always cheerful and so nice," his general practitioner shared.

His favorite road trips were to Virginia to spend Thanksgiving with his youngest daughter, Paula, and going to Georgia to celebrate the Fourth of July with his eldest daughter, Tanya.

Bowie loved the Lord and became excited any time he talked about the goodness of God, or heaven.

"I've had a good life," he told his daughters. 'And that, he has.

Others who are left to cherish his memory are brother-in-law, Paul L. Wright, Sr. of Maryland; niece, Tammera Wright of Maryland; nephew, Paul Wright, III of Maryland; cousins, Felicia Davis and family, Hope Workman, Anatoria Jones, and Caroline Bailey of North Carolina, Bishop Mumford of Virginia; and a host of extended family and friends.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am Thursday, September 12, 2024 at Goler Metropolitan AME Zion Church.  Interment will follow in Eastlawn Gardens of Memory, Kernersville, NC. The family visitation will be held from 10:00am until 10:45am on Thursday at the Church.

In lieu of flowers and cards, please send donations in honor of Mr. Clifton V. Bowie to Winston Salem State University: WSSU Rams Give, www.wssu.edu/donate, 336-750-3132. Please select either Athletics and donate to the Men's Basketball Team Operating or Football Recruitment Fund; or Band and Choir and donate to the Red Sea of Sound Marching Band Operating Fund.