Tommie Stowers Sr.

We celebrate and honor the life of Tommie D. Stowers, Sr. whose earthly presence enriched us for seventy-four years until he joined his beloved ancestors in eternal peace on April 10, 2021.

Tommie was the third of eight children born to Floyd Stowers, Sr. and Eula Lee Stowers and a lifelong Kansas City resident. He married his high school sweetheart, Bernice, and led a joy-filled life raising their son, Tommie Jr. Following high school, Tommie proudly served as a sergeant and jet aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and loved telling stories about his time in the service. He was employed at Lakeside Hospital and Bendix before joining Kansas City Power & Light, where he worked for 37 years before retiring in 2009.  

Whether it was the confidence in his eyes or the coolness in his manner, Tommie had a presence that commanded respect. He was known to use colorful characterizations, memorable phrases, and witty remarks that left you smiling. Never one to shy away from speaking the truth, if you asked for his opinion, you would certainly hear it. He was an advocate for challenging the wrongs of the world and didn’t hesitate to voice his thoughts on social and political issues. He inspired others to push themselves and was a constant source of warm encouragement that with faith and commitment, anything is possible. For many, Tommie was an example of what is possible. He was generous and kind with his time and talents and could often be found talking to an eager child about cars, sports, and life, teaching game-winning strategies, or helping with homework. Even adults valued his sage advice about career, faith, marriage, raising children, and financial literacy. With Tommie, you always found a listening ear that was never rushed.

Tommie lived a full life immersing himself in numerous hobbies and passions, including- holding season tickets and traveling to various cities to support the Kansas City Chiefs, singing on stage in flashy 70s attire as a member of Down to Earth and with The Upsetters in the military, serving his country among brave comrades in Vietnam, sharing his love of sports with young athletes as a youth football and baseball coach, driving and working on vintage cars, dancing the night away, talking trash and winning during Bid Whist and dominoes, and engaging in spirited debate and conversations.

Tommie held God and family in the highest regard. He cherished spending time with his family and was a long-time member of Emmanuel Baptist Church and attended Zion Grove Baptist Church. Having lost his mother in his youth, Tommie shared a very close relationship with his siblings. He was preceded in death by both parents, his brothers Billy, Larry, Floyd Jr., Dennis, and Lawrence, and a sister, Sarah.  

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Bernice; son, Tommie Jr. (Kim); one sister, Brenda; two grandchildren, Brittanie and Alex; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. His generous spirit, infectious laughter, warm, wise counsel, and knowledge of all things related to football, will be greatly missed. The light in his eyes and the love in his embrace will forever be cherished.

Tommie was a…

Gentle giant – Pillar of strength – Man of wisdom and integrity – Caring listener – Trusted confidant – Unwavering supporter – Constant encourager – Loyal friend– Distinguished gentleman – Sports authority – Straight shooter – Brave warrior – Car enthusiast – Domino boss – Gifted singer – Exemplary role model – Thoughtful advisor – Man of his word – Inspiring mentor – Fearless protector – Witty character

These are but a few of the ways Tommie led a life that left an everlasting mark in the lives of many. 

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