Mike Bowling and Kelly Crabb were at the heart of The Bowling Family, a celebrated gospel music group known for their rich harmonies and heartfelt ministry. Their marriage—spanning more than two decades—was central not only to their personal lives but also to the identity of their musical legacy. Together, they weathered joy, tragedy, and accomplishments as a unit.
Tragedy and Resilience: Showcasing Their Bond
In 2010, the family experienced a horrific tour bus accident; Mike, Kelly, and their daughter were critically injured. Their recovery journey became a testament to perseverance and faith, with fans and peers admiring their determination to return to ministry and performance.
Despite that trauma, public admiration grew for how they reclaimed their musical mission. They remained united—at least outwardly—for many years afterward.
Signs of Marital Distance
Years later, in 2021, Kelly and her daughters moved out of the marital home. The move sparked concern: Kelly’s mother reportedly shared that “Mike is gone, they are getting divorced,” and that the separation took Kelly by surprise.
While some posts hinted at emotional fallout or relationship collapse, few specifics were ever disclosed publicly.
Kelly’s Personal Perspective: Struggling Behind the Scenes
In a reflective post, Kelly shared:
“This was 2 ½ years ago. I had filed for divorce and most days I had to preach to myself, pray for myself, and then do it some more. It’s been so tough.”
Her account indicates prolonged emotional strain. The phrasing suggests the split followed a long period of internal struggle and unexpected disruption—even to her faith and confidence.
Lack of Public Explanation
Neither Mike nor Kelly made comprehensive public statements detailing the causes of their divorce. There is no verified reporting of infidelity, abuse, financial crisis, or any scandal.
Rather, the dissolution appears to stem from personal breakdown, changes in personal identity, or diverging paths—details that remained largely within the private sphere.
Reframing Identity Beyond Marriage
Kelly’s 2023 book, “This Is My Story,” candidly chronicles her emotional and ministry journey amid the breakdown of a 23‑year marriage. Within, she addresses how losing her marriage also threatened her place in gospel ministry and community identity.
Her narrative reflects on how public ministry and personal crisis collided—forcing her to rebuild her sense of self when personal life unraveled.
The Aftermath: Music, Ministry, and Moving Forward
Post-divorce, Kelly continues performing with her daughters as The Bowling Sisters, leaning into themes of healing, faith, and resilience in their ongoing music ministry. Her performances—and storytelling—now reflect her solo journey.
Mike has withdrawn significantly from public ministry after the separation. He no longer appears on the group’s official platforms—raising speculation about his current path.
Final Reflection
The divorce of Mike and Kelly Bowling highlights how even long-standing partnerships in faith communities can unravel quietly under pressure. While no scandal emerged, it’s clear that hidden emotional and spiritual turmoil led Kelly to redefine her path outside marriage. Their story reminds us that private struggles—especially within public personas—often go unnoticed until the rupture. And while the specific circumstances remain largely undisclosed, the transitions each of them made post-separation tell a story of faith tested and rebuilt.
Respecting their privacy, what’s documented leans toward emotional collapse—not betrayal—as the core of their separation.
Brandon is the cheif editor and writer at WorldUnfolds.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen editorial eye, he crafts engaging content that captivates and enlightens readers worldwide.
