Sophenia Jean Bowen Mintz

Sophenia Jean Bowen Osakwe Mintz bounced into this world on April 18, 1956, to the late Clarence Moultrie "Bubba" Bowen and Margaret Hemphill Bowen in York, South Carolina.

Affectionately known as Jean, she matriculated in Rock Hill Schools graduating from Northwestern High School Class of 1974.

Jean was baptized at an early age at Mt. Zion Baptist Church.

She was a faithful member of the gospel chorus. She loved to sing and travel to other churches to sing. Her rich alto voice was the foundation of the choir, steady and uplifting. Her favorite gospel chorus song is called "Searching."

Jean was athletic on the softball field playing for Carol Park, as center field, and a powerful hitter. She loved to dance with her Swing partner Steff, and her presence was vividly known on the spades table. Jean retired from the Food and Hospitality industry with Aramark at Winthrop University.

Mama garnered her own special ministry- The Texting Ministry.

She devoted her time and dedicated her fingers to do the texting to everyone she knew before noon every day. She loved communicating with people, and she did not meet a stranger.

Her smile was infectious. Jean Bowen was a straight shooter, and she always left a majestic spark wherever she went. Jean Bowen could make anyone laugh until their stomachs ached.

We count it among life's greatest blessings that we had the opportunity to know her and share in her journey.

Jean was called home on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Atrium Pineville Hospital, and heaven has gained a beautiful soul.

She is preceded in death by her husband Wille Anderson "Gin" Mintz, daughter, Tanisha LaSchal "Crew" Osakwe; her sister, Melinda Garvin; first husband, Ike B. Osakwe, her parents Clarence, and Margaret Bowen.

Jean continues to be honored and uplifted by her daughters, LiMia Shawntel Bowen of Charlotte, NC, Nekeisha Stevenson (Terrence) of Rock Hill, SC, grandchildren, Jhace Stevenson of Rock Hill, SC, Imani Boyd of Charlotte, NC, and Christopher "CJ" Stevenson of Rock Hill, SC; Sisters Stephanie Murdock of Rock Hill, SC, Vonnie Shealy (Smith) of Hickory Grove, SC, and Doris Chisholm of Rock Hill, SC. One Brother, Dewey Bowen of Spartanburg, SC. Jean leaves behind a blended family that she cherished deeply, treating her stepdaughter, Cheryl Mintz as her own. Treasured are a host of nieces and nephews with whom she had a special bond with. Jean is the proud great grandmother of animals Deuce the Dog and Thumper the Rabbit. She leaves behind her devoted son-in-law, Terrence Stevenson, who will hold dear the special bond they were blessed to share. She leaves behind two decades of cherished memories and love with Jeffrey "Duke" Howell.

Though her voice is silent, Mama's legacy echoes in our hearts forever.