Supreme Court of North Carolina Marshal Tom Bownan Retires After Two Decades

This week, the North Carolina Supreme Court announced that Supreme Court Marshal Tom Bowman is retiring after decades of service. Chief Deputy Marshal Ricky Parks will serve as his replacement.  

“Marshal Bowman’s distinguished service to the people of North Carolina and the Judicial Branch has been marked by integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” said Chief Justice Paul Newby. “His commitment to protecting our courts and those who serve within them has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service.” 

In 2003, Bowman began his career at the North Carolina Supreme Court as a messenger. After completing Basic Law Enforcement Training, he becomes the first certified law enforcement Marshal for the Court, helping establish the modern security operations at the state’s highest court. Before joining the judicial branch, Bowna served in the United States Army and North Carolina National Guard.  

Chief Deputy Marshal Ricky Parks will succeed Bowman as the next Marshal of the Supreme Court. He has served as Chief Deputy Marshal since 2016. Prior to joining the judicial branch, he served in the Nash County Sheriff’s Office and the Rocky Mount Police Department.  

“Chief Deputy Marshal Parks has demonstrated community leadership, professionalism, and dedication throughout his career in law enforcement and his service to the Supreme Court,” Chief Justice Newby said. “I am confident he will continue the tradition of excellence and service established by Marshal Bowman.”