Ronald Lee Sowards

Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Mary Ellen Foster Sowards; son, Larry Sowards; daughters, Karen Davis (Bob) and Angela Vance (John); sister, Wilma Hailey (Larry); nine grandchildren; 22 great - grandchildren; three great - great - grandchildren; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Ronald was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald R. Sowards and Rodney A. Sowards, and sisters, Ann Lou Shamblin and Patty Jo Holstein.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Ronald was a lifelong member of the Nitro Church of God and loved to praise God with his gift of singing and playing guitar.

Ronald loved his country and was a proud United States Marine veteran.

He worked for Viscose/Avtex Fibers in Nitro for over 30 years until its closing, and retired from Fruehauf Trailers in North Charleston.

Ronald had a kind word and smile for everyone he met.

A celebration of Ronald's life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 26, at Casdorph & Curry Funeral Home, with Pastor David McCormick officiating. Burial will follow in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans, with Military Graveside Rites to be conducted by St. Albans VFW Post 6418 and American Legion Post 73. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations be made to Hubbard Hospice House West, 4605 MacCorkle Ave., SW, South Charleston, WV 25309.

The Sowards family would like to thank a very special Angel, Tina Gibson, for all her support, compassionate care, and friendship.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.casdorphandcurry.com.