Joel Frank Bowie, 82, passed away on Friday March 28, 2025 surrounded by the loving care of 

family after a courageous battle with cancer. 

Born in Lewiston Maine, Joel was the son of the late Philip and Harriet (Hall) Bowie. His early 

years were spent in Cumberland, Yarmouth, and North Yarmouth, Maine. He is a graduate of 

North Yarmouth Academy, University of Maine and its Law School in Portland. Between his 

sophomore and junior years at UMaine, he enrolled in the Peace Corps, spending two years in 

Brazil. He was drafted out of law school into the Army during the Vietnam War. His legal 

practice in Damariscotta, Maine centered on real estate for his entire 40 years as an attorney. 

After retirement, he relocated to Lehigh Acres, Florida to enjoy the winter months, with regular 

returns to Maine.   

A man of many interests, Joel was a town moderator, Sunday School teacher, church trustee, Cub 

Scout leader, Lions Club member, in several theater groups and choruses.  While his profession 

was an attorney, his passion was building dry stone walls, and there are thousands of feet of his 

in the State of Maine.      

Joel is pre-deceased by both parents, and two brothers Gerald, and Richard. He is survived by his 

brother Rodney of Norwich, CT., his sisters Judy Rowan of Exeter, NH, and Kathy Blake of 

Windham, ME.  In addition, he leaves his son Matthew, Daughter-in-law Dianna, and 

grandchildren Alexandra, Gabriel, and Ava as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be held TBD. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American 

Civil Liberties Union.