Gerald David (Jerry) Bowles, Sr., 88, of Forest passed away Saturday, September 2, 2023 at his residence. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Geraldine B. Bowles. Born in Bedford County, July 4, 1935, he was the son of the late James Maxey Bowles and Nora Katherine Atkins Bowles.
Jerry was a proud Army veteran who served in Korea and earned the Korean service medal with two bronze stars. While able, he could be found every Friday morning with his fellow veterans at Monument Terrace proudly holding up the tradition of supporting all troops in their deployment. Jerry's true passion lay in his building of his field trial beagle kennel, Otter River Beagles. His expertise led to numerous state competition victories, and several of his dogs earned a place in the Field Trial Beagle Hall of Fame. In addition to his accomplishments, he was a devoted member of Lebanon United Methodist Church, where his faith played a central role in his life.
Jerry’s dedication, both in service to his country and his community, will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to his many friends and family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Kimberly B. Held and husband Carl and Heidi B. Toler and husband Wayne; two sons, Gerald D. Bowles, Jr. and wife Joy and Kenneth Crawford; five grandchildren, Casey Rawson (Steve), Cory David Held (Alison), Joshua Ryan Bowles (Tyler), Caleb M. Bowles (Lanee) and Jessica Crawford; four great grandchildren, Emerson Rawson, Lincoln Rawson, Evelyn Held and Colton Held; two brothers, Raymond A. Bowles and Roger Dale Bowles (Louise) and one sister, Joyce B. Hicks.
A service celebrating his life and faith will be conducted at 2pm on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Lebanon United Methodist Church with the Rev. Ron Davidson officiating.
The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.
The family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whittentimberlake.com for the Bowles family.
