Danya J. Bowers

     On June 17, 2023, Danya peacefully died in Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola.  Danya was the widow of Benjamin R. Bowers (deceased August 28,1981), and lived in the Forth Walton Beach area for over 40 years.  Danya was born April 16, 1940, to Vurvel Cruce Jones and Vincent Alverson Jones in Gadsden, AL, but lived in Mobile, AL, for the first part of her life; Fort Walton Beach, FL, the latter part.  She spent the last 2 years near her family in Mobile, AL.  She is mourned by her sister, Camilla Jones Newbill, (Vernon predeceased in death); two nephews, Vernon "AL" Newbill (Deana), Vincent Newbill (Dana); niece, Lana Newbill Thompson (John); great nephews, Bradford Thompson (Bekah), Stanley Newbill, Craig Newbill, Connor Newbill, and great niece, Grace Thompson; other relatives, and her lifelong friends, Bonnie Smith and Judy Foister.  

     A memorial service will be held 10 am, Saturday, July 22, 2023 at Rose Lawn Funeral Home in Gulf Breeze, FL.  Family flowers only please; donations, if desired, to Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) spay and neuter program, 752 Lovejoy Road, Fort Walton Beach, FL, or to the Eglin AFB No Kill Animal Shelter, Eglin AFB, FL.

     Treasured memories will reside in the hearts of all those that knew her for her adventurous spirit and amazing determination.  She was a faithful sister and friend, and a free spirited, feisty aunt that always kept you guessing.  She had a special love for animals, particularly a little, red-headed poodle named Zoe.  

     Ms. Bowers retired from civil service employment as a secretary, primary at Eglin AFB, FL.  She was an amazing artist and talented violinist.  She played violin with the Mobile Alabama Junior Symphony Orchestra and was one of the first members of the Okaloosa County Symphony Orchestra, which later became the Northwest Florida Community College Symphony Orchestra (24 years); she also played at various church events, and for musicals given locally and in Pensacola, FL.  She painted oils and exhibited her works in local shows, taking several first prizes.  Ms Bowers had also been very active in the Fort Walton Beach League of Women Voters and held several offices in that organization.  

     In Dayna's own words, "Forgive, if not, it will only destroy YOU.  Be kind every chance you get.  Dance as if no-one is watching, and don't forget to be grateful for everything, sometimes even unanswered prayer."

     Danya said, "I love life, laughter, animals, music, art, the beach, the Smoky Mountains, and some people-some of whom were very special to me."  Remember her joyfully.