Stephen Ray Bowen, 76, husband of Janie Lou Buntain Bowen, passed away on September 12, 2026, at his home in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Born on January 12, 1950, in Frankfort, Kentucky, he was the son of the late James Frank "J.F." Bowen, Jr. and Nila Mae Darnell Bowen.

Steve was a 1968 graduate of Western High School. He proudly served as an Anderson County Patrolman for 26 years and was also a lifelong farmer. Steve spent his entire life within a two-mile radius of his childhood home, a place he loved. He was a member of Antioch Christian Church and was a Mason for more than 50 years.

Steve enjoyed being around people and was known for his playful personality and quick wit. His family often said that the more he picked on you, the more he liked you. His family was incredibly important to him, and he made a special effort to include his nephews in everything he did. During his younger years, Steve enjoyed working at his parents' general store. He loved working outdoors and took great pride in tending to his garden, especially when it produced an impressive crop of large vegetables. Steve also enjoyed visiting flea markets and searching for tools, with his family joking that the rustier they were, the better. He treasured time spent telling stories with old friends, sharing good food, and simply being around the people he loved. Above all else, Steve loved his wife, Janie, and the life they shared together.

Along with his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his brothers, James Frank "Jimmy" Bowen, III and Jackie Curtis Bowen; and his nephew, Jeremy Lee Bowen.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Janie; nephews, Curt Bowen (Melody Bland) and Travis Bowen (Lisa); nieces, Sherry Bowen Hahn (Lee) and Julie Bowen Baker (Bill); and several great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home, 701 N. Main Street, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, with Bro. Bart Price officiating. Burial will follow in Lawrenceburg Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday with Masonic Rites beginning at 7:30 P.M., September 16, 2026, at Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home and again on Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Curt Bowen, Travis Bowen, Cody Bowen, Drew Stratton, Bertram Buntain, and Jacob Hill. Honorary pallbearers will be Danny Darnell, Mark Drury, Carrol Stine, Daril Ulery, Timmy Drury, Allan Noort, and T.J. Drury.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Steve are suggested to Camp Calvary, 475 Camp Calvary Lane, Mackville, KY 40040.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Condolences may be shared online at www.ritchieandpeach.com.