Friends Remember Fallen Hero 'Josh' Bowden with Words, Photos

Staff Sergeant Joshua ‘Josh’ James Bowden, 28 of Villa Rica, passed away Aug. 31, from injuries sustained while serving his country in Afghanistan. Born Aug. 9, 1985 in Lithia Springs, Josh graduated in 2003 from Alexander High School.

He is survived by his wife, April Bowden and son, Kaden Bowden. 

Here's what some of Josh's friends had to say about him:

Nick Truell was the best man at Josh's wedding and recalls growing up with him since they were about five years old.

Josh had a habit of turning a dull moment into a great time. We spent a lot of time together when we were younger - from riding go carts, to dirt bikes and then graduating to street bikes as we grew older. Playing soccer and seeing what kind of mischief we could get get into. 

Some of my favorite memories of Josh include:

The time we bought several hundred bottle rockets, put them in a bag, dousing it in gasoline, lighting it and running away laughing as chaos ensued.

Losing in a fist fight while accidentally punching Josh in the face when he tried to help. 

Josh and I sinking his truck in a mud hole. 

Josh picking up his brand new motorcycle. Riding it home in a cast he got from recking his first one.

The honor of being Josh's best man. 

I'm going to miss Josh and he would be honored to see the support for him and his family.

Here's a few of the comments made by Josh's friend Daniel Perry at the funeral:

It's an honor to have lived with and to love a man like Josh. Josh was always calm, yet he had a certain smile. Growing up with Josh meant never living a dull moment.

Heres what friend Javier Lopez said at Josh's funeral:

There are many stories I can remember. Some that not need be spoken of. One memory in particular was while playing soccer - the award ceremony would be at the Bowden’s house swimming,

I remember riding go-karts, wrestling and causing chaos. Another memory was Josh taking Nick, Joe and I down to Destin, Florida, for our senior spring break. We thought we were the stuff riding with the windows down, listening to loud music and watching Nick fail at talking to girls.

The last time I saw Josh was a little over two years ago. I do wish I could have had the chance to shake his hand and give him a hug one more time. 

Also to Kaden, while you grow up I am sure you will have some questions of Josh. I just want to let you know that my door will always be open for you.

Related Douglasville Patch stories: