Paul Ross Bowen, Jr.

Paul Ross Bowen, Jr., known to many as Ross, age 76 years, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday morning, July 8, 2026, in Ringoes, NJ, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 4, 1949, in Trenton, NJ, he was the son of the late Janet (Smith) Bowen and Paul R. Bowen, Sr. Ross spent a life characterized by dedication to service, strong family bonds, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Ross graduated from Steinert High School in Hamilton, NJ, in 1967, setting the stage for further success. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree at Trenton State College (now TCNJ), establishing a foundation for his future pursuits.

Answering the call of his country, Ross served in the United States Navy during Vietnam from 1970 to 1971 as a Seabee, with the rank of Builder Constructionman (BUCN). This period of service exemplified his commitment and sense of duty, qualities he maintained throughout his life. He later continued serving his fellow veterans as chaplain of his local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) chapter.

Upon returning home, Ross joined the New Jersey State Police, embarking on a distinguished 25-year career. Rising to the rank of Detective Sergeant First Class, he was renowned among colleagues for his meticulous professionalism—“the most squared away person you would ever meet.” In February 1982, he was awarded the New Jersey State Police Distinguished Service Medal, the department's highest honor, in recognition of his exceptional service. He was extremely proud of his career as a state trooper and maintained the highest standards of fitness, appearance, and discipline. Ross was not only a respected law enforcement officer but also a loyal friend and dependable colleague, always ready with a joke or a laugh, and someone upon whom others could rely.

In his personal life, Ross lived for 44 years in Ringoes, NJ, building a close-knit family and community. He was a talented woodworker who took pride in creating furniture and cherished each opportunity to build something lasting with his hands. An avid golfer, skier, kayaker, and biker, Ross found peace and joy outdoors, particularly enjoying trips to Sea Girt beach down the Jersey Shore. Additionally, his love of the outdoors extended to backyard flora and fauna; he especially loved to feed the deer and other local wildlife.

Family brought Ross his deepest sense of pride and fulfillment. He cherished being both a great father and “Sarge” or “Gramps” to his beloved grandchildren. He is survived by his devoted children; his son, Paul Ross Bowen, III and his wife Bree; his daughters, Bonnie Richards and her husband Jeff, and Kathryn Farrell and her husband Joseph; and his treasured grandchildren, Ainsley Farrell, McKenna Farrell, Bryce Bowen, and Sienna Bowen. Ross is also survived by his brothers, Neal Bowen, James Bowen, and John Bowen; as well as his longtime partner, Kathy Tarver. He was predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Barbara Helen (Nicol) Bowen, who passed away in 2005.

The legacy that Ross leaves behind—of dedicated service to his country and state, unwavering commitment to family, and loyalty to friends—will be remembered with great affection and respect by all who knew him.

A visitation to honor the life of Paul Ross Bowen, Jr. will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St, Flemington, NJ 08822. The service will follow at 2:00 pm also in the funeral home. Interment will then take place at Union Cemetery, Boss Road, Ringoes, NJ, with honors rendered by both the New Jersey State Police and the United States Navy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ross's memory may be made to The Eleanor and Lou Gehrig ALS Center at Columbia University/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, in honor of his late wife, by clicking here: https://www.alscenter.cuimc.columbia.edu/make-gift

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.