Elsie Embry Bowlds, known lovingly to almost everyone as “Granny,” passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, at the Heartford House surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply. She was born on August 22, 1931, in Butler County, KY to William and Pruda Embry.
Granny lived a life centered around love, family, and taking care of the people she held close. While she filled many roles throughout her life, her favorite and most treasured title was always “Granny.” Nothing brought her more joy than her three children, stepson, eight grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and her 14 great-great-grandchildren and the many moments spent together making memories that will now become treasured stories.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 53 years, Jack M. Bowlds; and her infant grandson, Adam W. Schaber.
Left to carry on her love and memory are her children, Julie “Julia Ann” (Joe) Schaber, Janie Conkright, and John (Sharon) Layson; and stepson, Jeff (Diane) Bowlds. She also leaves behind the grandchildren she adored so much: Kristie (Karl) Lamb, Carey Richards, Chris (Kim) Conkright, Mick Conkright (Danny Walker), April (Mike) Rose, Natalie (Carl) Fitzgerald, Taylor (Lauren) Layson, and Dale Bowlds.
Granny was the heart of her family — a steady source of love, comfort, wisdom, and strength. Whether through a warm meal, a conversation at the kitchen table, or simply being present when someone needed her, she had a way of making everyone feel loved and at home. Her family was her greatest accomplishment and the true joy of her life.
Though her family’s hearts are heavy with loss, they find comfort knowing her love will remain with them always. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the unconditional love she gave so freely will continue through every generation that calls her Granny. She enjoyed reading, her flower gardens, looking at her photo frame, anything involving the family, especially all the great-grands and great-great-grands!
Funeral services will be at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026 at James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory with Rev. Tom Pelphrey officiating. Burial will follow in Owensboro Memorial Gardens. Visitation is from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to Hospice of Western Kentucky, 3419 Wathens Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301.