Mr. Cleveland Bowens

Mr. Cleveland D. Bowens, affectionately known to all as “Dale”, was born on October 4, 1954, in Wallace, North Carolina, to Lauraetta Boney Bowen and Telfia Theodore Bowen. From the beginning, Dale lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and a deep love for the people around him. On January 15, 2026, he answered the Lords call at his home in Hampton, VA. 

Dale dedicated 43 years of faithful service to the Newport News Shipyard—18 years as a welder and 25 years in the “Metal Shack” before retiring on November 1, 2019. Known for his skill and determination, he received his qualification as a Metal Station Attendant in just three weeks, a feat that typically took others upwards to six months. He was also a proud union advocate and served for numerous years as the Shipyard basketball coach, which earned him the name “Coach” to many until this day. He was always willing to step up when leadership was needed. A testament to his pride in his work, Dale authored a motto that still hangs in metal issue stations across the shipyard: “Pride in building great ships starts here in M/S.” He also worked security for many years at Hampton University & the Hampton Coliseum allowing  some of us to enter concerts for free. 

Outside of work, Dale knew how to enjoy life. He loved fishing, playing dominos, spades and bid whist, and was famous for firing up the grill to cook BBQ for every occasion—whether requested or not. Later in life, he began traveling with his Virginia family and quickly fell in love with cruising, embracing every new adventure with excitement. A true farmer and proud Carolina boy, Dale had a natural way of nurturing growth—both in plants and in people. 

A diehard Washington Redskins/Commanders fan to the very end, Dale’s loyalty ran deep in all areas of his life. He was a faithful and devoted member of Holy Tabernacle Church of Deliverance in Newport News, VA, where he found joy in worship and serving others. 

Dale’s love was never loud, but it was always evident. He showed up early, to everything, every time. If you need something, don’t buy it instead ask Dale because he already has at least two. If you were struggling, he helped without being asked. From lottery tickets to his daily “water run” down Chesapeake Avenue, Dale’s routines became traditions, and his presence became comfort. His kindness was steady, his generosity unmatched, and his support unwavering. 

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Telfia Theodore Bowen, and his brothers, Dennis Bowen and James “JT” Bowen. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Lauraetta Bowen of Wallace, NC; his only daughter, Stephanie Wharton of Newport News, VA; two sons, Christopher Bowen and Carlos Bowen of Jacksonville, NC; five beloved grandchildren; and his brother, Wendell “Tiny” Bowen of Wallace, NC. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. 

Dale also leaves behind lifelong friends he considered family—his Virginia family—including brother and wife Andre and Meloney Allsopp, sisters Kim Bryant and Shawn “Lisa” Beverly, along with many nieces, nephews, and close friends who shared in his laughter, loyalty, and love. 

Cleveland “Dale” Bowens will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished for a life well lived and a love shown through action. 

It is the desire of the Bowens/Wharton families that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mr. Cleveland Bowens has entrusted his local care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home and final care to Rose Hill Funeral Home Rose Hill, NC.

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