Susan Davis Bowers

Susan Blair Davis Bowers

February 25, 1943 – January 20, 2025

Susan was born in Atlanta, GA, the eldest of three children to Blair and Sue Davis and spent her first years in Athens, GA. Although raised in Savannah, Athens always held a special place in her heart. A proud graduate of Savannah High School, Susan had many close and lifelong friends from Savannah, and truly enjoyed their periodic reunions.

She met and married Karl Smith Bowers, the love of her life, in Savannah. They resided for years in Karl’s hometown of Estill, SC. In true fashion, Susan quickly became a valued member of the community, again making lifelong friends with whom she kept in touch over the years.

Susan and Karl moved to Washington, DC upon his appointment as Federal Highway Administrator. Regardless of the setting, whether small town or big city, Susan made her distinctive mark as the belle of the ball and again making friends who remained close even after moving back to South Carolina.

Following their years in Washington and living in Columbia, Susan worked with the Lexington School District 5, was very active in local politics, was a leader in her neighborhood association and received a gubernatorial appointment to the Human Affairs Commission. She was part of the Commission for years, including serving as the Commission Chair.

Susan and Karl enjoyed every summer on the May River in Bluffton, spending time with their friends and family boating, crabbing, and particularly “Sandbar Sundays”.

After 40 years in her St Andrews home, Susan moved to the Laurel Crest retirement community. She quickly made her mark in the community, whether helping the resident team pick up litter on the side of the road from her golf cart or holding court at the weekly happy hours. She made many good friends and was a force in the community, earning the nickname “Queen of the Silver Dollar”.

Susan had a one-of-a-kind personality, loved a party, and enjoyed a good scotch. Her proudest accomplishments were her three sons, Karl, Jr “Butch” (Julie), Tim (Lori), and Neal (Michelle). She is survived by her grandchildren, Karl III “Kale”, William, Mary Evelyn, Virginia, Jackson, Preston and Meredith. Predeceased by her brother Jeff (Karen), she is also survived by her sister, Beverly (Sonny) and multiple nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at Temples-Halloran Funeral Home, 5400 Old Bush River Road, Columbia, SC, on Thursday, January 23rd from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. A private burial will be held at the Fort Jackson National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice in memory of Susan.