Nella Viola Shank Bowers

In Loving Memory of

Nella Viola Shank Bowers

October 26, 1944 - July 20, 2025

Nella Viola Shank Bowers, 80, of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with dementia. She was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and spent her life caring for others - as a nurse, a mother, a sister, and a friend.

Nella was a devoted wife to the late Jay W. Bowers, who passed away in 2010. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, music, and memories.

She is survived by her four children: Michelle Gast (Brian) of Quarryville, PA; Jay Bowers Jr. of Kings Mountain, NC; Jaye Nell Groff (Rodney) of Kings Mountain, NC; and Daniel Bowers (Megan) of York, PA. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren, her sister Barbara, and her brother Ronald. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse M. Shank and Esther P. Shank; and siblings Jesse, Donnie, Laverne, Mabel, Pearl, Violet, Sally, and Pat.

For over 35 years, Nella served as a charge nurse, dedicating herself to the care and comfort of others. Her compassion extended beyond her profession - she was an animal lover, regularly contributing to local shelters, vets, and causes supporting the homeless.

Nella loved classic country music and was a lifelong fan of Elvis Presley. She found joy in simple pleasures - garage sales, trips to Wildwood beach in New Jersey, and quiet drives through the mountains. She was full of stories, always eager to share memories from her youth in Lancaster, PA.

Those who knew Nella will remember her warm heart, generous spirit, and loving nature. She made everyone feel welcome and left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.

A virtual memorial service will be held, with an in-person gathering to celebrate her life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, Carolina Caring - 2240 Remount Rd., Gastonia, NC 28055.