Gary Bowman Sr., 60, of Hopkinsville, Passes Away

Longtime hospital employee and devoted family man remembered for his big heart and love of wrestling

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Gary Wayne Bowman Sr., affectionately known as 'Tubby', passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026 at the age of 60. Bowman was born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky and worked at Jennie Stuart Hospital for over 30 years. He was a devoted family man, loving father and grandfather, and diehard Miami Dolphins fan who enjoyed watching wrestling with his grandchildren.

Why it matters

Bowman's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member and longtime hospital employee in Hopkinsville. His life story highlights the importance of family, faith, and finding joy in simple pleasures like sports and time with loved ones.

The details

Bowman accepted Christ at an early age and excelled as a baseball player at Hopkinsville High School. After graduating, he began a 30-year career at Jennie Stuart Hospital. Bowman was known for his big heart, mesmerizing smile, and ability to never meet a stranger. He was married to the late Sonya Babb and together they had three children. Bowman also had several stepchildren and 22 grandchildren that he adored, often doing TikTok dances and watching wrestling with them. He was affectionately known as 'The Grill Master' and loved cooking while wearing his Miami Dolphins gear.

  • Bowman passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026.
  • Bowman was born on October 14, 1965 in Hopkinsville.

The players

Gary Wayne Bowman Sr.

A 60-year-old Hopkinsville resident who worked at Jennie Stuart Hospital for over 30 years and was known for his big heart, love of family, and passion for sports and wrestling.

Sonya Babb

Bowman's late wife, with whom he had three children.

Jennie Stuart Hospital

The hospital where Bowman worked for over three decades.

Miami Dolphins

Bowman's favorite NFL team that he was a diehard fan of.

John Cena

Bowman's favorite professional wrestler that he loved watching on WWE.

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What’s next

Visitation for Bowman will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11:00am at Durrett Avenue Baptist Church, followed by funeral services at noon. Taylor's Funeral Home in Hopkinsville is handling the arrangements.

The takeaway

Bowman's life story is a testament to the power of community, family, and finding joy in the simple things. His passing is a loss felt deeply by those who knew him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who always had a smile on his face.