OBITUARY BESSIE BOWIEJanuary 8, 1914 - March 23, 2012ANDERSON, SC Bessie McCrary Bowie, adored wife of Dr. Clyde Finley Bowie and beloved mother of Eleanor Melmer, Beverly Clark (Frank), Eathel Weimer (Bill), Antoinette ('Punkin') Schroder (Ted), Bessie (deceased), Marie and Clyde (Ginny) Bowie, died March 23, 2012 at age 98. She was born on January 8, 1914, in Marianna, Florida and was a descendant of Florida pioneers who settled in West Florida when it was still a territory. Her lifelong love of her native state and gratitude for her Christian heritage was evident to all who knew her. She graduated from Converse College in 1935 where she distinguished herself by winning the drama cup when she was a senior and expected to follow her famous relative, Sidney Blackmer, star of stage and screen, into a career in acting. She was known for her fragile beauty and was a member of May Court and numerous other organizations. But her loveliness masked an indomitable spirit that inspired her children to meet the challenges in their lives, large and small, with courage and hope.Bessie loved hosting parties and opening her home, 'High Chimneys' at 2012 N. Main Street, to all and sundry, and many will remember her devotionals at midnight on New Year's Eve in the midst of high school celebrations. For 22 years, she nursed her husband after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in his 50's. No patient could have had a tenderer nurse or most constant caregiver. Her hospitality and charm were her hallmarks and her faith in Jesus Christ instilled in her children a confidence and peace that the world cannot give. She leaves 7 grandchildren; Mark Melmer, Frank Clark III, Hunter (Carolyn) Wiemer, Ryan (Adrian) Weimer, Carrie (Kevin) Jacobs, Amelia (Mark) Burkett, Parker, Anne and Findley Bowie; 10 great-grandchildren: Samantha Melmer, Laith, Lance, Lexi, Annabel and Briella Weimer, Anna Jacobs, Ryan and Oliva Yard, and Erika Burkett. Although we know she goes to a far better place and is now reunited with her precious Clyde and other relatives and friends, we will sorely miss her. We 'rise up and call her blessed.'Bessie was interred at Starr Baptist Church Cemetery at a private family committal service. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 302 West Whitner Street, Anderson, SC 29624 or to Haven of Rest Ministries, PO Box 466, Anderson, SC 29622. A message of condolence may be sent by visiting www.mcdougaldfuneralhome.com. THE MCDOUGALD FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES