Candace McGehee 'Candy' Bowen, Longtime Navy Wife and Community Advocate, Dies at 67

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Candace McGehee 'Candy' Bowen, a 67-year-old resident of Reidsville, North Carolina, passed away on March 5, 2026 at the Gibson House Ancora Compassionate Care (formerly Hospice of Rockingham County). Bowen was a homemaker and longtime member of First Baptist Church, as well as a dedicated Navy wife and Ombudsman who helped other military families navigate bureaucracy. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Alvin W. 'Al' Bowen, III, and three daughters.

Why it matters

Bowen's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member and Navy spouse who selflessly supported her family and other military families during her husband's naval service. Her work as a Navy Ombudsman highlights the critical role these volunteers play in assisting military families, especially during times of deployment and transition.

The details

A native of Reidsville, Bowen was the daughter of the late Henry and Rachel Benfield McGehee. She was known as a devoted homemaker who took care of any and all problems that arose in the Bowen household while her husband Al was serving in the Navy. Bowen also became a Navy Ombudsman to help other Navy wives navigate the bureaucracy that affects military families. In her free time, Bowen was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with her daughters. She also loved and doted on her pet corgi, Deacon.

• Candace McGehee 'Candy' Bowen passed away on March 5, 2026.
• A celebration of life for Bowen will be held on April 18, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Reidsville, North Carolina.

What’s next

A celebration of life for Candace McGehee 'Candy' Bowen will be held on April 18, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Reidsville, North Carolina.