Rebecca Bowman Nelson – Metropolitan Funeral

Rebecca Bowman Nelson, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on April 20 at the age of 82. She was born on January 28, 1941, in Danville, VA to the late Willie James Bowman and Rev. Geneva Young Bowman. She was one of five children born to this union.

Rebecca had a strong faith and accepted Jesus Christ at an early age. She was a faithful member of The Pentecostal Holiness Church in Danville, VA, during her youth. Later, she married James Edward Sydnor and they had four children together. During her marriage, she was a member of Sandy Creek Baptist Church in Danville, VA, and sang in the Gospel Choir. After moving to Chesapeake, VA, she became a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church and sang in the Gospel Jubilee Choir. In her later years, she joined Olive Branch Baptist Church, where she served on the missionary committee and continued to worship until her passing.

Rebecca was a dedicated employee at LTD Hospitality Group in Chesapeake, VA for over 20 years.  She was the owner, Mr. Desai, righthand woman when it came to opening new hotels and was instrumental in opening several Fairfield Inns, Comfort Suites, and Marriott Courtyard Hotels along the east coast.  

Rebecca was known for her delicious cakes and pies, which were always a hit wherever she went. She loved Pepsi and enjoyed watching games shows and cooking shows on TV. Her wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Rebecca was preceded in death by her mother and father; daughter, Sharon Denise Sanders; sisters, Rosetta Bowman White and Elma Lee Bowman Green and brother, Clent Lee Bowman. She is survived by her daughter, Rev. Charlene Sydnor Hawkins (Terrence); sons, George Anthony Sydnor (Kelli Sydnor) and James Edward Sydnor, Jr., as well as a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends.

Rebecca’s legacy of faith, love, and kindness will continue to inspire and bless all those who knew her. She will be deeply missed by all.