By ANNA USHER

The devastated father of a former Mosman real estate agent killed in a stabbing attack is speaking out about his daughter’s life as details of her violent death emerge.

Meaghan Bowler, 32, was a “beautiful, kind and trusting girl”, who followed her heart to the United States in 2023.

The mother of two young boys was found in the bathtub of her Florida home on April 9.

According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, her husband, Jesse Jones, 39, called 911 shortly after 5:30pm to report that he had stabbed his wife and believed she was dead.

Jones has been charged with first-degree murder and remains in custody ahead of a bond hearing on May 22.

The couple’s toddlers, Elijah and Jesse Jr, were found unharmed.

Speaking with Mosman Collective, Meaghan’s father Tony said she was a caring and outgoing person who “genuinely loved people” and “instantly connected” with others.

“Meaghan was one of those girls who made an impact on everyone she met, she was a warm and friendly young woman with the most beautiful smile,” he said.

“Our family is shattered. Our hearts are broken and we just don’t know what the future looks like without Meaghan.”

Originally from the Central Coast, Meaghan was a Boarder at Pymble Ladies College and completed her HSC in 2011. She graduated from Manly’s International College of Management (ICMS) with a Bachelor of Business degree in 2013.

In 2014, Meaghan began her career as an Events Executive with the Sydney Swans, before making the change to Real Estate.

She joined Raine and Horne Mosman in 2018, where she was a “popular and valued” member of staff.

“Meaghan was part of our office for a period during her early career in real estate, where she worked in an administrative support role,” Director Brendan Warner told Mosman Collective.

“During her time with us, she was known for her warm nature, professionalism, and willingness to help wherever needed.

“She approached her work with care and diligence and was well-liked by both colleagues and clients.

“Our thoughts are with Meaghan’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and we extend our sincere condolences to all who knew her.”

Meghan’s father said his daughter’s time on the lower north shore was “the happiest chapter” of her short life.

“She loved the lower north shore and she loved Manly,” Tony said.

“It was a time in her life when she was so happy. Meghan made lifelong friends during her time in Sydney and was absolutely thriving.

“The local community embraced her and she was loving life.”

Meaghan met her husband online, with Jones travelling to Australia in December 2022 before they continued their relationship long-distance.

In September 2023, she travelled to the US for what was meant to be a three-month stay – but never returned home.

The family is receiving consular assistance from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, while continuing to follow the ongoing US court case.

“We just want Meaghan to be laid to rest at home,” Tony said, “all efforts are being made to bring her body back to Australia.”

No date has been set for Meaghan’s funeral.