Newport, RI - Rodney P. Bowley, 73, of 38 Bedlow Avenue, Newport, RI, died Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at home. He was the husband of Paula Peloquin Bowley. Born in Newport, RI on February 27, 1937, he was the son of the late John F. and Mary Amoruso Bowley.Mr. Bowley grew up in Newport and was a 1954 graduate of De LaSalle High School. He then went on to Southern New England School of Law and received his J.D. with the inaugural graduating class. Mr. Bowley was an Assistant Prosecuter for the Rhode Island District Attorneys Office under Arlene Violets administration. He was the business agent for the Carpenters Local 176 for many years, fighting to insure good-paying jobs for local men and women. Rodney was a member and secretary for the Rhode Island Central Labor Council. Up until his death he served as a Vice Chairman of the Newport Housing Authority. He founded and was treasurer of The Friendly Sons of Newport Social Club, affectionately referred to as that GD club, a former member of the Newport Elks Lodge and served on the Middletown Zoning Board. He was the Founder and President of Beths Quest Foundation, a Lyme Disease awareness and prevention non profit organization created in memory of his daughter. This became his lifes work and will remain a part of his legacy. Rodney acted as a voice for people who did not raise their own, working to protect and support the underserved in our community. He is survived by his children, David P. Bowley of Exeter, NH, Stacey Bowley Yarrow and her husband Grady of Middletown, RI, John P. Bowely of Mahwah, NJ and Christine Chilton of Marblehead, MA, and his grandchildren, Liam Coen, Emily Yarrow, Evan Bowley, Andrew Yarrow and Maxwell Chilton. He was the father of the late Beth Bowley Coen. Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 21, 2011, from 6:00-9:00pm in the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport.His funeral will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2011, at 10:00 am from the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in Jesus Savior Church, Broadway and Vernon Avenue, Newport.Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Odyssey Hospice, 2374 Post Road, Suite 206, Warwick, RI 02886.
Tributes
Kathleen DeMeo - October 08, 2.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"Oh how Michael and I remember Rod. Always a smile and always trying to help others.He was THE Soul Mate to Paula. I could tell you all many good memories of Rod and Paula. I'm so sorry we were in our last year of Florida and never knew of the great man's passing. Paula....I hope we can get together to talk about the wonderful times we all had. My sincere condolences, after all this time, to you and the family. I do miss you. Kathy"
Eden Lahr - January 30, 2011 a.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"David: Taking a moment to reflect on the passing of your father this morning. My thoughts are with you and your family. Regards, Eden Lahr"
paula - January 25, 2011 at 12.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"David I know that the loss of your Dad is leaving a huge void in your life at this time. Please know that he is watching you and is so proud of how you put your emotions aside for someone else whose heart was broken beyond belief. You can look in the mirror and be proud of the man looking back just as your Dad could do. Much Love Paula"
Chuck and Mary Connor - Januar.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"To Paula and Rod's children and grandchildren, we extend our deep condolences. Rod was a great guy!"
melissa - January 22, 2011 at .. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"to the bowley family sympathy goes out to the family .. iam glad i got to meet mr bowley he was a great man i use to go to the house and draw his blood we used to talk all the time .. he talked highly about his kids and wife .. he will be missed. sorry for ur loss"
Jack & Pat Crowley - January 2.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"Dear Paula Pat and I were saddened to hear about Rod's passing. He was a good friend and fun to be with I'm sorry I could not attend the wake or funeral our thoughts are with you and if there's anything we can do please let me know. Jack"
Susan Potter - January 21, 201.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"Dear Paula and Family, I am sorry I couldn't make it to the wake, but of course my condolensces go out to you and your family! Also Rod will remain in your heart forever and be with you for the rest of your life.........."
Joanne Jannitto - January 21, .. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"So sorry for your loss. Rod was a great person and such a great friend to my father Joseph Rodericks. I know he will be missed by many. May your loving memories help comfort you during this difficult time."
Joanne Bellagamba - January 21.. wrote on Jan 19, 2011:
"Dear Dave and Family, May the love and comfort of friends and family help you heal. So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you, Joanne"