3/12/2006

The Chattanooga Fire Department unexpectedly lost a beloved and highly respected firefighter Saturday. Lieutenant Jeff Bowman passed away at his residence Saturday, March 11, 2006. He was 42, and he leaves behind a wife and two boys, ages 11 and 16. Family members believe Jeff died of natural causes, and are awaiting confirmation from the medical examiner's office.

Jeff had been with the fire department for ten years. He was a veteran with the U.S. Navy, and was well-known locally through his career as a professional boxer. Jeff was well-respected on the job as a professional firefighter, but his friends and fellow firefighters also knew him to be a very devoted father and husband.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 15, at 11:00 a.m., at Brainerd Baptist Church (300 Brookfield Ave.). Internment will follow at the Chattanooga National Cemetery, with full military honors. The family will receive friends Tuesday, March 14, from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., at Heritage Funeral Home at 7454 E. Brainerd Road.

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