James “Ray” Bowman, Sr., age 86, of Cassville, Missouri passed away peacefully at his home on October 31, 2025.

He was born on September 20, 1939 in Exeter, Missouri the son of Roy and Mary (Peters) Bowman. On June 27, 1959 at Calvary Baptist Church in Exeter he was united in marriage to Donna Carder, who survives. Also surviving are one son, Jerry Bowman and his wife, Casey of Exeter; four grandchildren, Tiffany, Brexton, Ainsley, and Kinsley and one great grandchild, Elias.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, Aaron Bowman; two sisters Wilma Dean Zoll and his twin sister Ruth Morgan; one son, James “Jim” Ray Bowman, Jr., and one grandson, Kyle Bowman.

Ray grew up and attended school in Exeter. After graduating from Exeter High School in 1957, Ray dedicated his life to farming, a vocation that he deeply enjoyed. The simple pleasures of working on the farm and bailing hay were among his most favorite activities. Ray loved being a father and took immense joy in his role as a grandfather. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Kansas City Chiefs and enjoyed watching and feeding the birds and squirrels around his home. Ray was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he enjoyed attending church and participating in his Sunday school class. Ray will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A graveside service were held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Maplewood Cemetery in Exeter, Missouri, under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Randy Comer conducted the services.

Contributions may be made to Sleep In Heavenly Peace in memory of Ray.

PAID OBITUARY