Myrtle Creasey Bowles

Born to the late Jesse Bowyer Creasey and Melva Hodges Creasey on March 31, 1929, Myrtle walked through this world as a woman who exuded the joy that radiates from a life of faith, rarely being seen without a smile on her face and a cross around her neck. She was a constant display of quiet strength, and though one of few words, her gift of being an earnest listener is one of the many things we will miss. When next to Myrtle, you felt understood and appreciated: the twinkle in her eye that accompanied the gentle affirmations and encouragement she gave always reminded you that you were loved, no matter what nonsense you may say or do (everyone in the family tested her on this once in a while).

Her other talents included growing beautiful flowers, making the best macaroni and cheese in the south, being a selfless servant to those in need, and creating smiles with two simple words: “hey shuga.”

Myrtle is survived by her loving husband and best friend of 71 years, Raymond A. Bowles. Their love story began with Raymond swooping in to take Myrtle to the movies after she’d been stood up by another date, and as they say, the rest is a long, beautiful history. Together they raised three children, Linda Diane Clark (Charlie), Michael R. Bowles (Barbara), and Teresa B. Cheverton (Mike), choosing each other no matter the season and staying true to their vows of “until death do us part.”

In addition to Raymond and her children, Myrtle is survived by 6 grandchildren: Brandon M. Robertson (Tammi), Jason M. Bowles (Kerry), Aaron J. Robertson (Kimberly), Taylor R. Bryant (Ronnie), Lindsey C. Zovko (Carl), Jessica C. Lang (Greg), 10 great grandchildren: Colin Robertson, Jaden Robertson, Pierce Bryant, Tye Robertson, Charlotte Bowles, Jocelyn Bowles, Trace Robertson, Lily Zovko, Aubin Bowles, and Harper Zovko, and one sister: Lucille Fitzgerald (Ryland). She is proceeded in death by 5 siblings: J. B. Creasey, Wray Creasey, Mildred Marshall, Howard Creasey, and Phyllis Goodman.

The family would also like to extend their gratitude for the love and care provided by the NICU at Lynchburg General Hospital, specifically Dr. Kay Bonyak, during Myrtle’s last days.

Though there will never be enough words to describe the magnitude of goodness Myrtle brought to the world, when once asked what it was she wanted people to remember about her, Myrtle said it was that she was a friend and always helped others. So, in honor of the woman we love so much, we ask that today and every day you pass on her legacy by doing the same.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Lebanon United Methodist Church with Pastor Steve Parker officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be make to Lebanon United Methodist Church, Cemetery Fund, 4565 New London Rd, Forest, VA 24551.