Vernon Ray Bowman

Vernon Ray Bowman, 88, of Fayetteville passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2013, at his home. He was born on June 3, 1924, in Madison County, Ark., to Reuben and Mellie Jones Bowman. Vernon married Helene Walker on April 15, 1944, and they raised five sons. Vernon was a long-time employee of McClinton Anchor and retired from the company in 1987. He enjoyed gardening and was an excellent dancer. He loved spending time with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben Bowman and Mellie Myers; wife, Helene; daughter, Rita Mae Bowman; sister, Ellrena Schweizer; and two brothers, Earl Bowman and Roy Bowman. Survivors include his five sons, Ray Glen Bowman and wife, Jessie, Reuben Bowman and wife, Sue and Rex Bowman and wife, Becky, all of Huntsville, Sidney Bowman and wife, Shirley of Fayetteville and Ray Bowman, Jr., and wife, Glenda of Springdale; and three sisters, Ruby Carroll of Hispenia, Calif., Lodema Gross of Springdale and Idere Wilhoit of Yuba City, Calif.; eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and several other family members and friends. A private family service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Beard's Funeral Chapel. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.