Vernon Leon Bowden, Sr., age 72, resident of Ft. Scott, KS, died Thursday, September 26, 2019, at Via Christi Hospital, Pittsburg, KS. He was born November 4, 1946, in Phoenix, AZ, the son of Arie and Eunice Nichols Bowden. Vernon was an avid KC Chiefs fan and loved to compete in pool tournaments. Christmas was his favorite holiday, occasionally dressing as Santa. He enjoyed all his dogs; Bear, Tator, and Manny. Vernon loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a member of the Apostolic Pentecostal Church in Ft. Scott.

Survivors include his children, Tina Creekmore and husband Ron, Turlock, CA, Angel Steeley, Ft. Scott, stepson Russell West, Modesto, CA, Star McClellan and husband Matt, Ft. Scott, Vernon Bowden, Jr., Eugene, OR, and son-in-law Jason Steeley; 6 grandchildren, Jennifer Tilley, Joshua Creekmore, Makayla Steeley, Haley Steeley, Madelynn McClellan, and Madyson McClellan; and 4 great grandchildren, Caleb Tilley, Bailey Creekmore, Kyla Tilley, and Victoria Tilley. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There was cremation. Private family memorial services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.