William Bowe Obituary

William Leon Bowe

"Bill"

April 26, 1947 – August 6, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that the family of William Leon Bowe announces his passing on August 6, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 26, 1947, at Cooper Hospital in Camden, NJ, to Joseph Leon Bowe and Margaret Bowe (née Sulzman), Bill led a life defined by his unwavering dedication to justice, his commitment to family, and his profound impact on everyone he encountered.

Bill grew up in Woodbury, NJ, alongside his younger sister, Kathleen Margaret Bowe. He attended St. Patrick's Elementary School and later graduated from Gloucester Catholic High School, where his sharp intellect and sense of fairness were already evident.

He went on to pursue higher education at St. Joseph's University before attending the prestigious University of Virginia Law School, where he refined his legal skills and passion for advocating for the underserved.

Bill spent much of his career with the Philadelphia Public Defender's Office, where he made significant contributions to the criminal justice system, representing clients with compassion and integrity. His colleagues and clients alike admired his tireless work ethic, his respect for the law, and his deep empathy for those he served.

He was especially passionate about his involvement in the Lifers Program, where he worked tirelessly with juveniles sentenced to life in prison. He dedicated years of his life to reducing sentences and, in many cases, securing their release. His work in this area was transformative, not just for the lives he helped change but for the criminal justice system itself. Bill believed in second chances and fought relentlessly for those who had been given none.

But Bill's determination didn't just extend to his work, it defined how he lived. On an ordinary August day, while riding an elevator, Bill met a woman who caught his eye. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Bill struck up a conversation with Sylvia Atchkinson, and after a few moments of connection, he was invited to sit at her table for coffee. That simple conversation blossomed into a beautiful 17-year marriage, full of love, laughter, and partnership.

Throughout his life, Bill was a devoted family man. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. His warmth and love will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to family, friends, and his community was a central theme in everything he did.

Bill's legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of justice. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Sylvia Bowe (nee Atchison), his sons, Jeffrey Harris, Justin Harris, and Kurtis Abrams, his grandson, Nyvair Harris, his sister Kathleen Kilgus (Paul), his nephews, Paul C. Kilgus, Jonathan Kilgus (Erica) and Christopher Kilgus (Adele). His great nieces and nephews: Kristine Kilgus, Leonardo Kilgus, Otto Kilgus, Griffin Kilgus and Calder Kilgus, and his faithful fur companion, Khaleesi.

He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph Leon Bowe and Margaret Bowe (née Sulzman), and his fur companions, Blue and Redd.

Family and friends are invited to attend Bill's viewing on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 9:00am-11:00am at the McGuinness Funeral Home, located at 34 Hunter St, Woodbury, NJ 08096. Followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. Interment will be private.