Thelma Elizabeth Garman
Thelma Elizabeth “Liz” Bowers Garman, 72, passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. She was born on February 22, 1954, in Virginia, to the late Joe Billy Bowers, Sr. and Nellie Louise Rosenbaum Bowers. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of forty three years, George Wayne Garman; sister, Patricia Bowers Underwood; brothers, J.B. Bowers, Doug Bowers, and Tommy Bowers, Sr.; brothers-in-law, Glenn Underwood, Billy Slate, Ronnie and Timmy Odell; paternal grandparents, Joe Billy Bowers, Sr., and Mamie Sexton Bowers; and maternal grandparents, H. Brown Rosenbaum and Thelma E. Rosenbaum.
She was a devoted member of Victory Baptist Church and found great joy in serving others, especially through cooking. Preparing meals was her love language, and she took every opportunity to cook for her family, church family, and pastors. She believed that making sure everyone was well fed was one of the greatest ways to show her love and care.
She loved the beauty of the mountains and could often be found watching hummingbirds, one of her favorite simple pleasures. An exceptional baker, she was especially known for her delicious cherry pies. More than fifteen years ago, she and her grandchildren were featured in the Martinsville Bulletin for making pies together, a memory she treasured.
Elizabeth also enjoyed country breakfasts, with buckwheat pancakes, home fries, and at Crooked Oaks Restaurant among her favorite meals. She loved shopping at Belk, and one of her greatest joys was coordinating outfits with her granddaughter, Nellie, creating special memories they both cherished. Liz especially enjoyed going out to eat with her grandson, Fred. They shared many special meals together, and some of her favorites were buttermilk pie and fried chicken.
Elizabeth is survived by her daughters; Kimberly Price-Stuart (William), and Jeanette Garman (Tim); sisters, Lou Slate, Carolyn Bowers Campbell, and Martha Bowers Odell; brothers, Bobby Bowers (Rosemary), Jimmy Bowers (Karna), and Mike Bowers (Frances); sister-in-law, Vicky Bowers; grandchildren, Fred Lee Price III (Katie), and Nellie Turner (Zach); great-grandchild, Zekiah Turner. Also surviving is special cousin, Shelia Nester (RJ); beloved pets, Boots, John Boy, Milo and Mr. B.; and a host of nieces, and nephews.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at Norris Funeral Services, Martinsville Chapel with David Naff and Kelvin Wright officiating. The family will accept guests one hour prior to the service, and other times at the home. After services, a burial will be held at Fairystone Baptist Church Cemetery, in Stuart, Virginia.
Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory is serving the Garman family. Online condolences can be made at www.norrisfuneral.com.
