Longtime Chapman Dodge customers purchase retirement ride

Chapman Automotive Don Hamrick, general manager of Chapman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, poses with longtime customers Sam and Barbara Bowie. The couple bought a new Chrysler 300C to celebrate Barbara Bowie's retirement.

Chapman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram prides itself on building genuine relationships that span beyond selling cars, turning customers into family.

Sam and Barbara Bowie have been leasing vehicles at Chapman for over 20 years, building relationships with Chapman staff members. When it came time for Barbara Bowie to retire, her husband knew just where to go to find the perfect vehicle to surprise his wife.

Throughout the years, the couple chose to lease and found it worked best for them because of minimal mileage on vehicles and the convenience and excitement of a brand-new car every few years.

Both Bowies have worked at Centel phone company, now CenturyLink, for over 35 years. Nearing her 37th year, Barbara Bowie decided it was time for a new adventure: retirement. In celebration of her lifelong achievements, dedication and hard work, Sam Bowie surprised his wife with a top-of-the-line red 2017 Chrysler 300C.

“We’ve always preferred Dodge and Chrysler cars in our family,” Sam Bowie said. “Barbara drove her previous Chrysler 300 from Las Vegas to Jacksonville, Florida, so she really got to know the car inside and out.

“She’s loved the car so much, I knew I had to make my way to Chapman when it came time to make a purchase for this special time for Barbara.”

The Bowies say they enjoy the family-friendly vibe at Chapman and credit the “dealership for the people” mantra for employing staff who do more than sell cars.

“It’s folks like Sam and Barbara that make what we do worthwhile and so much more than a sales transaction,” said Don Hamrick, general manager of Chapman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram. “The Bowies are a shining example of how clients become family over the years and we’re thrilled to share in this special milestone of Barbara’s retirement.”

The 2017 Chrysler 300C offers a luxurious ride with dual-pane panoramic power sunroof and rear-window power sunshade, heated and ventilated power leather-trimmed front seats and heated rear seats. Pricing starts at $38,635.