Mr. Donald Ray Bowden

Rocky Mount –

Donald Ray Bowden, our beloved husband, father, father-in-law, Papa, brother, and friend, passed away on November 18, 2025. He passed after an extended illness at his home, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 78.

He was born in Nash County on December 10, 1946 to Allen and Estelle Bowden. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Charles Newkirk and Ed Toretta.

He will always be lovingly remembered by his wife, Claudia Bowden, of 53 years. He is survived by his two sons, Jared Heath Bowden (Kristi) of Chapel Hill and Justin Ray Bowden (Callie) of Myrtle Beach, SC. Don was a proud papa to Savannah, Jamie, Jack, Ava, and Nolan Bowden. He is also survived by his four sisters, Barbara Toretta, Dianne Bowden, Sandra Wood (Sherwood), and Lynn Morgan (Stephen). Don will also be missed by his in-laws, Brenda Neighbors and Gerald Crusenberry (Becky), nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Don retired from Nash Brick Company in 2017 due to his illness. He was the General Manager with Nash Brick Company. He was a graduate of Edward Best High School and Nash Community College. Don served 4 ½ years in the US Air Force stationed at Lakenheath, England. He was a hard-working man who instilled those same values in his family.  He had a love for sports, especially basketball and golf. He was known for giving his weather reports.

A special thank you to his dearest friend Roy Bunn, from Montana. Don enjoyed all the Friday morning phone calls they shared. You meant so much to Don.

The family would like to extend their gratitude and thanks to Gentiva Hospice. A special thank you to his #1 nurse, Liz. Thanks to all the Gentiva nurses and staff for taking such loving care of our Don. 

A graveside service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, 4454 Dortches Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.