Christine Bowen's Obituary
In loving memory of our beloved matriarch, Ms. Christine Ollison-Bowen, we reflect on a life well-lived. Christine was born on May 29, 1926, in Junction City, Arkansas and peacefully ascended to heaven to be with our Heavenly Father on May 24, 2023.
Christine, the youngest of two daughters, was born to the late Ms. Willie Norton. During the Great Migration, Ms. Willie made the courageous decision to seek a better life on the Gold Coast and moved with Christine, Christine's husband Luther Ray Ollison Sr., and their five young children from Arkansas to San Diego, California. Eventually, they settled in the Linda Vista area. Christine remarried to Moses Bowen and raised his daughter Lisa Bowen. Christine and her family created a beautiful home and Christine resided in the same house for over 50 years.
In the face of adversity, Christine embarked on a career as a hotel staff member in downtown San Diego, at a time when being a Black woman in America was met with unwelcome attitudes and treatment lacking dignity and kindness. However, Christine's indomitable spirit refused to be diminished. She was a force to be reckoned with, known by all who encountered her as a dignified woman of beauty, style, and grace. Not a strand of hair was ever out of place, and her hands were always perfectly manicured.
From an early age, Christine accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. Her love for the Lord knew no bounds, and she held close to her heart Psalms 24, which became one of her favorite Bible verses. Her daughter, Shirley Ollison-Givens, fondly remembers reciting these verses with her mother, as Christine would raise her voice in a joyful noise, exclaiming with conviction and shaking her shoulders, "Who is the King of glory?"
Christine faithfully served God as usher at Good News Missionary Baptist Church in Linda Vista, California, for over thirty years. Her unwavering commitment to her faith and her relentless desire to share the goodness and faithfulness of God touched the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Christine Bowen leaves to cherish and honor her DASH: her seven children Luther Ray Ollison, Jr, Shirley Givens, Felton, Larry and Gary Ollison, Lisa Bowen and her honorary daughter Linda Brulee; fourteen grandchildren Safi and Amani Duncan, Gary, Larry, Chini, Damon, Felton, Josh Ollison and Tyler Ollison, Falisha Ollison-Leffler, Amaris, Amari, Ciara and Tsar; over a dozen great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Christine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Christine?
Share a story where Christine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Christine you’ll never forget.
How did Christine make you smile?
