State and local officials gathered Thursday morning to pay homage to a local woman who has used her talent in service to God and her community for more than four decades.
Members of the Tennessee Senate, at the request of local officials and Sen. Rusty Crowe, recently passed a resolution honoring Loretta Bowers. On Thursday morning, Crowe was joined by State Rep. John Holsclaw, County Mayor Leon Humphrey, City Manager Jerome Kitchens and members of the Veterans War Memorial Oversight Committee to present Bowers with a copy of the resolution.
“We are so proud of you for your patriotism and your service to our community,” Crowe told Bowers. “You have always supported us and the Senate wanted to honor you for your support of our veterans.”
Bowers, an Elizabethton-native, began singing at a young age. While still in high school, she began singing at various events honoring veterans. For more than 40 years now, Bowers has been a large part of holiday celebrations, memorial events and social functions supporting veterans and those still serving in the military.
“Loretta Bowers is the epitome of a proud patriot,” Crowe said.
Music was always a part of her family growing up, Bowers said. The daughter of the late George and Elvena Bowers, Loretta Bowers was the middle child out of five and she recalls that the entire family sang.
Despite all her experience performing over the years, Bowers said she still gets nervous.
“I know for sure if the nerves don’t get me then I’m trying to go out on my own power,” she said. “When the nerves get me I have to turn it all over to the Lord because I’m just a vessel.”
When Bowers receives a compliment on a performance or her voice, she is quick to give the glory to God where she says it belongs. “God has blessed me so much,” she said.
Bowers is a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church where she serves as a lay minister and director of the youth group and the church choir.
The resolution passed by the Senate also recognizes her service to her church and her devotion to God.
“Her heart’s desire is to show the love of God to all men and hear ‘well done’ when her life of service to Him is concluded,” the resolution said.
She is the mother to four children – her sons Colden and Terrence and her daughters Tyesha and Taleah. She has also served as a mentor for numerous children in the community, Crowe said.