For 17 years, JenAlice Bowman was the epitome of nursing at River Valley Health System (RVHS) in Ironton.

Wednesday, June 14, 2000

For 17 years, JenAlice Bowman was the epitome of nursing at River Valley Health System (RVHS) in Ironton.

The registered nurse began her career as a school nurse, and then moved to the then-Lawrence County General Hospital to serve patients in the area once known as First Main.

Through the years, her responsibilities increased, and she spent several years as assistant director of nursing prior to her retirement in 1985.

"I remember her as a school nurse," said Connie Lowe, RN and director of nursing at RVHS. "Then, after I graduated from nursing school, I spent my first year in nursing working on First Main with JenAlice."

During her 17 years at the hospital, Mrs. Bowman often remarked that the nurses needed their own library and meeting area.

Although she passed away several years ago, her idea lives on through a donation from her husband, Waldo Bowman; son, Jeff Bowman; and grandson, Chris Bowman.

On Friday afternoon, the JenAlice Conference Room C was formally dedicated in the new nursing and administrative services area on the fourth floor at RVHS.

"This conference room is used daily," said CEO Terry Vanderhoof. "We always talk about tradition ­ about our family caring for yours. JenAlice Bowman is part of that caring tradition. She was one of the hospital’s most loyal nurses here for a number of years.

"Through this conference room, her family has made an important contribution to maintaining that unbroken tradition from generation to generation."

Mrs. Bowman began work at the hospital in 1968.

Among the items donated by the Bowman family for the new conference room are bookcases, chairs, tables, computer, slide projector, clock and a variety of other books and study aids. Mrs. Bowman’s portrait is showcased on the main wall of the conference room and shows her in nurse’s uniform and cap.

"She always wore her cap," recalled Jean Kelley, RN. "I could always tell if she had a rough day because it would be cocked to one side when she left."

"JenAlice was a determined woman, and she knew everyone," said Wilma Fox. "She was a wonderful person."

Others echoed that spirit of determination.

"She didn’t back up, even from doctors, when it came to delivering health care," said Sue Surritt, medical staff coordinator.