Jack F. Bowles

Jack F. Bowles, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at his home in Clifton, Texas. A memorial service will be held in Baytown, Texas at a later date.

He was born on March 20, 1934 in Ava, Missouri to William N. Bowles and Iva Belle Nicholson Bowles. He grew up in Afton, Oklahoma where he made life-long friends. He loved telling stories about him and his friends getting into mischief as kids.

Jack was a Korean War Veteran, having served in the United States Army. His Military Occupation Specialty was in Communications. He was grateful for the many positive experiences and life lessons learned and appreciated the sacrifices of so many of his peers who gave their lives for this country.

In 1959, he began his 25 year career with General Telephone Company (GTE) as a lineman. He quickly moved into a management position and was selected as Team Leader for special assignments throughout southern Texas. Jack retired from GTE in 1984. He then owned and operated his own business, Bay Area TeleServices, until his health would no longer allow him to work.

Jack was a loving and caring father, husband, and friend. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends as well as camping, fishing, and tinkering with cars. There was a time in his life that he could tell you the make and model of every car on the road.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Vernon Bowles and Robert Bowles; and four sisters: Aretha Cutright, Iva Belle Murrell, Rose Wanda Thompson, and Lila Hall.

He is survived by his wife, Joy M. Bowles; his children: Sharon Y. Davis of Alvin, Texas; Walter G. Stevens of Highlands, Texas; and Jackie F. Raney and her husband, Jeff of Beaumont, Texas; his grandchildren: Melissa, Clif, Jack, and Jesse; one great-grandchild, Hannah; and one beloved "pup dog," Maddie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.