Lois Jean Vess

Lois Bowyer Vess, aged 83, passed away on October 5, 2023, in Jackson, GA.

She is preceded in death by parents, Harry Edward and Evelyn Josephine Bowyer; brother, Harry Edward Bowyer, Jr; sister, Linda Nicholas; and her husband James Vess.

A service to commemorate her life will take place on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Nicopolis Church in Bedford, VA.

Lois was born on September 11, 1940, in the beautiful mountains of VA to parents Evelyn Josephine and Harry Edward Bowyer. Growing up on a farm, she fondly recalled her childhood that included cattle herding and enjoying her dad’s tomatoes on homemade biscuits with her family.

At a young age, Lois discovered her faith in a local country church, where she also helped the pastor's family. Afterward, she left high school near its end to complete her education in Tennessee and briefly attended Tennessee Temple Bible College.

Returning to Bedford, she began working at Rubatex where she met James Vess. They married on November 25, 1959, embarking on a life that led them across the United States as James pursued his career. Before leaving Virginia, they were active members of Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg and contributed to the founding of Liberty University. In a heartfelt love letter dated December 5, 2001, James expressed deep gratitude for Lois's unwavering support throughout their journey together.

Despite hardships and heartbreak, Lois's life was marked by resilience and unwavering faith. She played a prominent role in Christian Women's Clubs across several states and was actively involved in Bible Study Fellowship.

Lois's powerful prayer life was characterized by "calm assurance" and heartfelt petitions for her beloved grandchildren, seeking protection, guidance, and a profound love for their Savior. Answers to her fervent prayers were evident throughout her life.

Lois Bowyer Vess leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion to her family and her Savior. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her son Gregory Vess of Big Island, VA; daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Tony Studebaker of Conyers, GA; grandchildren, Payne and Padraig Vess of Kennesaw, GA, and Austin, Andrew, Anna, and Alex Studebaker of Conyers, GA; brother Jackie Dale Bowyer of Bedford, Virginia; and nephews, Ronald Lee Nicholas of Lynchburg, VA and Edward Allen Bowyer of Bedford, VA.  

To offer condolences online, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are being handled by Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Bedford, at 540-586-3443.