Hazel L. Bowles, 87, of Columbus, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Keepsake Village of Columbus.

Born on January 15, 1939 in Columbus, Hazel was the daughter of Lawrence and Minnie L. Henderson Burton. She married Samuel P. Bowles on May 26, 1956, and he preceded her in death on September 21, 1998.

While Samuel served in the United States Army, Hazel accompanied him to Germany, where she worked at the post exchange. Upon their return, she continued her career at the Fort Harrison post exchange, having also spent time as a sales clerk at Hills and G.C. Murphy. Hazel had a deep passion for music and a genuine love for meeting people, always eager to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. She was also a dedicated member of the Hope Community Church of God.

Survivors include her children, Debbie Patton of Columbus and Stephen Bowles of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Shelby Griffith of Martinsville, Lauren Rader of Indianapolis, Kim Rios of Columbia, KY, and Samuel J. Patton of Columbia, KY; seven great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; brother, Michael Burton of Columbus; and several nieces and nephews.

Hazel was preceded in death by her husband; son, Bryan Keith Bowles; and sisters, Carolyn Turnmeier, Sheila Cox, and Regina Goldsmith.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 9 at 2 p.m. at Norman Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Flat Rock Baptist Cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed to Hazel's family at www.normanfuneralhome.net.