Donald Ray Bowdle

Donald Ray Bowdle, 81, of Benton, Arkansas passed away December 29, 2021.  He was born August 16, 1940, in Malvern, Arkansas to the late Donnie and Iris Bowdle.

Donald Ray served in the United States Navy as an engineman on an ice breaker, USS Burton Island, where he traveled from the North Pole to the South Pole.  During his Navy career, Donald Ray traveled around the world twice.  After his military career, Donald Ray was a truck driver for over twenty-five years.  He was a true cowboy and enjoyed riding horses and team roping.  Donald Ray also worked cows and was a member of the Cattleman’s Association.  Donald Ray was a tough, hard-working man, but always made time for his family.  He was gentle, fun-loving, and loved to joke around.  He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and being outdoors.

Donald Ray leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of fifty-seven years, Pat Bowdle of Benton, Arkansas; three children:  Darrin Ray Bowdle, Sheila Bowdle-Dunlap and husband Lance, and Ramon Scott Bowdle, all of Benton, Arkansas; grandchildren:  BreeAnne Bowdle and Darrin Ray Bowdle, Jr.; great-grandchilden:  Alivia, Abel, and Leila; brother, Bernard Bowdle and wife Tina of Malvern, Arkansas; and many family members and friends who love Donald Ray and will miss him always.

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, January 5, at Fairplay Cemetery in Benton, Arkansas.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.