Raymond Albert Bowles

Raymond was born to the late James Massie and Nora Atkins Bowles on November 2, 1926.

Though he grew up with very few material possessions, Raymond was given the priceless gifts of gumption, a strong work ethic, and a mindset he called “claim it and receive it.” Through these gifts he became a self made man, getting his first job at age 15 (by telling a little white lie about his experience) and quickly becoming the star employee. From that point on, Raymond worked hard every day and saved his pennies along the way, using them to buy land and build houses that he dreamed of as a boy living on dirt floors. After retiring, he fulfilled another dream of owning his own business, which he successfully operated until the age of 92.

Raymond was also tough as nails. One of his favorite sayings was “a country boy will survive,” and survive he did: through the Great Depression, serving in World War II, being run over by a farm tractor, and a major car accident. It was hard to tell that he’d gone through any struggles though, due to his lack of complaints.

A man of deep faith, Raymond loved others as the Bible says to - without judgment - and walked through this world with confidence, trusting that he was put here for a reason. He didn’t waste a moment to serve, work, and make the most out of every day.

Whether it was gardening, reading, studying history, riding his bike, volunteering at church, phone chatting, visiting with family, or congregating with friends at Hardee’s, he was active up until the very end.

Raymond is survived by 3 children: Linda Diane Clark (Charlie), Michael R. Bowles (Barbara), and Teresa B. Cheverton (Mike), 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),14 great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and one brother: Roger Bowles.

In addition to beautiful Myrtle, he is preceded in death by his parents and 9 siblings.

Raymond’s favorite Bible verse was Psalm 91, and, as promised, he was blessed with a long life. His ever present smirk, deep laugh, and earnest prayers he spoke over every family gathering will be deeply missed. But we know Raymond’s now at home with the Lord and Savior he loved so much on earth, and we’ve gained an angel who will guard us in all our ways.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the church and organizations Raymond gave to faithfully every month: Lebanon Methodist Church, St. Jude, Gleaning for the World, and International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.