Eloice Bowden Guillory, a lifelong Texan and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at the age of 90. She was born in Port Arthur, Texas, on July 14, 1934, to the late Betty and James Bowden. She was preceded in death by her two sisters, Elouise Riley and Dorothy Mae Bowden, and two brothers, James W. Bowden and James A. Bowden. Eloice was baptized at an early age at the historic Israel Chapel A.M.E Church in Port Arthur, Texas. She relocated to Houston, Texas, and joined Evangelist Chapel, where she remained a devoted lifelong member. She faithfully served as an officer and stewardess of the church and was also a cherished member of the choir. Eloice was preceded in death by her husbands: Vinson Briscoe, Gordy Bosie Sr., and Shelton Guillory Jr. Eloice lived a full, vibrant life marked by service, strength, and joy.

She was a proud graduate of Lincoln High School in Port Arthur, where she excelled both academically and athletically. A trailblazer, Eloice competed in the All-Black Texas High School State Track and Field Championship, running the third leg of the 440-yard relay alongside the legendary Olympic coach Barbara Jacket—a moment that would foreshadow her lifelong commitment to excellence.

Eloice continued her education at Prairie View A&M University, earning a bachelor's degree in business administration and Elementary Education. While at Prairie View, Eloice competed on the tennis team, a game that she loved. She furthered her studies at Texas Southern University, where she earned a master's degree and teacher certification. Eloice is also a Life Member of the illustrious sorority of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Graduate Chapter of Alpha Chi Zeta, Beaumont, TX.

Her professional life was defined by more than 30 years of dedicated service in education and criminal justice. She made a lasting impact on countless lives through her work and leadership, retiring with distinction from the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

Eloice's greatest joy, however, was her family. She is survived by her beloved children: Byron Briscoe (Vicki), Brenda Chambers, Cynthia Colbert (Dean), Gordy Bosie Jr. (Linda), Paula Chisley (Eric), and stepson Greg Bousie (Maria). Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren: Marlon Briscoe, DeAndre Carmen (Keidra), Jamarque Briscoe (Shannon), Monique Pride (Kenneth), Gordy Bosie III (Kourtnee), Bianca Nowlin (William), Jordan Bosie and Kennedy Bosie as well as eleven great-grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy.

As the oldest living Bowden who loved her extended family, she requested to acknowledge some of her dear cousins, Arthalia Lathan, Vivian Sneed, Cleotha Aldridge, Robert Mae Bowden, Gloria Jean Bowdon, and Ms. Kyle F. Hazelwood, along with other cousins, nieces and nephews.

Her strength, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family and community will be remembered always. Eloice's life was a testament to perseverance, education, and joy.

Eloice Bowden Guillory leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and inspiration. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.