Wilderness artisit E. B. Stowe dies at 100

SANFORD—Edmund Bruce “E. B.” Stowe, whose landscape paintings decorate wall all over Central Florida, has died at age 100.

Bruce, a resident of the Hillhavan Health Care Center in Sanford since 1980, died in his sleep Wednesday.

Born in Mount Dora, Stowe moved to Sanford in 1915 and worked as a celery grower and foliage farmer. He had been painting since 1910 and taught art for more than 40 years.  Stowe completed more than 5,000 paintings, including 1,700 landscapes commissioned by the owner of several Holiday Inns in Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach to hang in motel rooms.

Some of Stowe’s works alson hang in several city halls in Seminole , including Sanford’s.  Another work, a rendition of an antiquated Sanford City Hall that was demolished, is displayed at the Greater Sanford Chamber of Commerce.

Florida wilderness themes were Stowe’s trademark, and his favorite subject was the St. John’s River.  One of his oil paintings, of a palm on the St. John’s shore was exhibited in 1991 in the U. S. Capitol in a display honoring senior citizens.

Four years ago, Stowe’s paintings also were featured at the opening of the First Street Gallery in Sanford.  “He was kind of like the pride of the cultural community in Seminole County,” said Dave Farr, executive director of the Sanford chamber.  “His vitality was always high, and he was filled with humor.  Bless his heart.  He as a neat old gentleman, and we all will have very fond memories of him and his works.”

Sanford Mayor Bettye Smith described Stowe as a “kind, sweet man.  He will be irreplaceable in our community.  He painted Florida.  Everyone who has one of his paintings will cherish them.”

Stowe, a Methodist, is survived by two grandsons, two great-graddaughters and a niece.  Arrangements are being handled by Brisson Funeral Home in Sanford.  A memorial service will be held at 3 p. m. Sunday in the Brisson funeral chapel, with the Rev. Bruce Scott officiating.  Cremation will follow.