gardner-funeral-home-header-1.5

Terry Lee Bowles

August 05, 1944 - March 20, 2026

Terry Lee Bowles, 81, of Floyd, passed away March 20, 2026 surrounded by family. He is preceded in death by his parents, 10 brothers and sisters, and his loving wife of 49 years, Dorletta. 

He is survived by his three daughters and their husbands, Rhonda Howell (Greg), Hope Estes (Larry), and Kelli Higgs (John); Grandchildren Shannon Thomas (Heather), Anthony Higgs (Sasha), Nathan Higgs, Alexis Taylor (Jordan), Lucas Howell (Brianna), and Turner Howell (Summer); Great-grandchildren Laylah, Jaxon, Malachi, Sarai and 3 babies on the way in 2026. Terry is also survived by two siblings, Margaret Higginbotham and Bob Bowles along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.  

Terry served in the US Navy followed by employment at the Foundry. Upon leaving the workforce, Terry was an avid carpenter and wood worker. He enjoyed working a garden and canning. Known to many in the community, he was a tremendous blessing to us all, faithful as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, elder, and friend. We take comfort that he is now in the presence of the Lord experiencing the fullness of life and depth of love that Jesus gives us a taste of here in Him, free from suffering and pain.

In his final month, Terry was known to recite Psalm 27--

One thing have I asked of the LORD,

that will I seek after:

that I may dwell in the house of the LORD 

all the days of my life,

to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD

and to inquire in His temple.

For He will hide me in His shelter

in the day of trouble;

He will conceal me under the cover of His tent;

He will lift me high upon a rock.

And now my head shall be lifted up 

above my enemies all around me,

and I will offer in His tent 

sacrifices with shouts of joy;

I will sing and make melody to the LORD.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Carilion Hospice for their care, compassion and unwavering support during this difficult time.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12 Noon at Harvestwood Covenant Presbyterian Church, Floyd, VA with Reverend Michael Hill officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at 2:30 PM in Fairview Cemetery in Narrows, VA. 


Guest book

Stephanie Woodridge Shelor

Dublin, VA
March 23, 2026

My heartfelt condolences to Rhonda,Hope and Kelli along with their families. May the memories give you comfort in this time of sorrow. As you walk this path there are many that will be lifting you all up in prayer and sharing in your loss! All my love


Susan Bowles Wolfe

Christiansburg, Va
March 24, 2026

So very sorry.


Pat Bishop

115 Bishop Lane
March 24, 2026

So sorry for your loss. I liked Terry, he was a special person. Our Love and Prayers are with all of you.


Amy Jo Huff

Floyd
March 24, 2026

Sending my condolences, love, and prayers for Terrys family during this very difficult time. He was an absolute pleasure to work for and I am so glad I got to reconnect with him after so many years. I have fond memories of both Mr and Mrs Bowles with the Good Intentions when I was a child. God Bless you all and keep you close. Sincerely, Amy Jo


Sandra (Sonnie) Stafford

Narrows VA
March 24, 2026

Thinking of all the family. You're all in my prayers.


Katrina Stafford White

Salem VA
March 25, 2026

Our sincere condolences to the Bowles family. May your memories and love sustain you at this sad time.