Nathalia Bowser

In Loving Memory of Nathalia (Thay) Bowser

With deep sorrow, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Nathalia “Thay” Bowser, passed away peacefully at home on April 23, 2025, at the age of 98 (1927-2025). Thay lived a rich and meaningful life. Born in Pickens, South Carolina, the youngest of six children to Bessie and Guy Earle, she moved to New York City in 1944 after one year at Morris Brown College. She married Benjamin Bowser, Sr. Through their union, Benjamin Bowser Jr. was born. Following divorce in 1957, Thay built a distinguished career in federal service, becoming executive secretary in the New York CDC Regional Office. She earned numerous service awards before retiring early.

Thay was a woman of conviction, having attended the 1964 March on Washington and remained active throughout her life in Harlem’s civic and cultural life. She was a lifelong member of the NAACP, supported the United Negro College Fund, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Dance Theatre of Harlem, and several historically Black colleges and universities. She was a long-term member of the board of directors at 160 West 96th Street. Mother Bowser provided support and food to the Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011. She was also a dedicated servant to the Lord, worshipping at Abyssinian Baptist Church, The Holy Name of Jesus (Catholic), and Riverside Churches.

An avid traveler, Thay explored the world, visiting London, Paris, Rome, Rio de Janeiro, Jerusalem, Alaska, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, and Bali, and embarking on numerous Caribbean cruises.

Above all, Thay was devoted to her family and friends. She steadfastly supported her son, Benjamin, and grandson, Paul. She was thrilled to spend time with her great-grandchildren, Nathan and Imani, and their mom, Natasha. She laid the foundation for her great-grandchildren’s higher education. With Deborah and Ben’s union, she welcomed three additional grandchildren, Sakari, Joseph, and Joshua. After surviving her siblings, she remained in contact with nieces and nephews in South Carolina as long as she was able.

Her ashes have been interred at Trinity Church Cemetery and Mausoleum, overlooking the Hudson River in Manhattan, and at Griffin Baptist Church in Pickens, South Carolina. May she rest in peace.