Preston L. Bowden's Obituary
Preston L. Bowden lived a full and vibrant life from his birth on January 31, 1939, in Dagsboro, DE, to his peaceful passing on February 27, 2025, in Greenwood, DE. After a decade-long valiant battle with Alzheimer's disease, Preston departed this world surrounded by his loving family.
Preston loved the lord, family and friends. He enjoyed traveling and making memories, but was especially fond of his many adventures to Ocean City, MD. While at home, Preston could be found sharing a laugh over a game of dominoes, playing with his prized poodles, or perfecting the landscape around his home. From a young age, Preston loved Christmas. His family was known for their elaborate yearly Christmas display along their family home on Rt 24 in Millsboro. Preston spent many years perfecting his creamed chip beef recipe and making sure his granddaughter understood it well so she could continue the tradition of cooking it for the family on Christmas morning. Preston was a devoted and loving husband and father. He was very proud to support his family during his 37 years of working for the Delaware Electric Co-Op.
Preston is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Bowden; daughter Tillie Cordrey of Millsboro, DE, son Chris Bowden and his wife Terry of Ocala, FL, stepson Donald Frazier of Felton, DE, and granddaughter Amanda Cordrey of Millsboro, DE; sister Rosetta Bunting of Georgetown, DE.
Preston was predeceased by his sister Virginia Lewis, brother Norman Bowden, son-in-law Gerald “Beannie” Cordrey, and his first wife and mother of his children, Edwina Bowden.
Preston's memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him—a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures and who nurtured the warmth of family above all else.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Parsell Funeral Homes Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 2 N. William St., Bridgeville, DE 19933, where family and friends may begin visiting at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Bridgeville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Preston’s honor may be made to the Fallen Linemen Foundation at https://fallenlinemenfoundation.com/.
Please sign Preston’s tribute wall at this site.
FLORIST NOTE - Please deliver flowers to the Bridgeville Funeral Home on Wednesday March 5 2025 by 12:00 PM.
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