Marian A. Bowling

Marian "Mattie" A. Bowling January 11, 1956 – July 12, 2025 Born in Tacoma, Washington

Marian “Mattie” A. Bowling was a woman of simple things—yet to those who knew her, she was anything but ordinary. Creative, practical, and wise, Mattie possessed a deep well of knowledge and artistic spirit. She lived life on her own terms, always insightful, often feisty, and undeniably funny. Her storytelling could light up a room, and she had a way of making people feel seen, understood, and loved—even without words.

Mattie was deeply compassionate, an empath by nature. Animals were drawn to her gentle soul, especially the strays who seemed to know she would never turn them away. She worried often—because she cared so deeply—and her love was felt in countless unspoken ways.

She was a dreamer and a realist all at once. She didn’t sugarcoat the truth and never told you what you wanted to hear—only what you needed to. If she didn’t have the answer, she’d find it. Her fierce honesty was part of her strength, and it anchored the people around her.

Mattie took great pride in her 16-year career with the American Red Cross, where her dedication and heart touched many lives. She loved her family dearly and was the steady center in a sometimes-chaotic world.

She found delight in the curious and the unknown, never shying away from a good conspiracy theory or a deep conversation. She was adorable and extreme, charming and stubborn, with a sparkle in her eye that could only be hers.

Mattie is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, Walter Bowling; her daughters, Micah D. Wronowski and husband Joshua, and Stephanie L. Yeary and husband Gregory. She was a proud grandmother to Michaiah, Madeline, Canaan, Dale, and Claire. She is also survived by her sisters, Lea Ann Dunaway and Dana Johnson; her loving nieces and nephews; and her childhood best friend, Carol Dearman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clara and Elmo Johnson; her brother, Larry Graves; and her sisters, Barbara Walls and Dixie Hester.

Mattie’s memory will live on in every story told, every stray cared for, and every moment of laughter and truth shared in her name.

She was one of a kind—and she was deeply, deeply loved.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Dye, Dr. Anwar, the staff at Norman Regional ICU, and the team at DaVita Dialysis for their exceptional care and kindness.