Visitation
Committal
Carl Edward Bowles, 89, passed from this life on June 14, 2024. Carl was born in West Virgina on September 7, 1934. Eventually he moved to Morganton, NC in1965 and adopted North Carolina as his home. Carl was a lifetime minister, stating that he did not think retirement possible in doing the work of the Lord. As such, he loved people and never met a stranger. Carl made friends with all people and just loved to get to know them, even if it was a stranger he met in the grocery store parking lot. He was curious about everything, loved learning new things and was a man of true integrity. Carl loved the 8 churches from his lifelong ministry and never lost touch with any of them. He loved music, especially if it was religious and bluegrass, and never tired of seeing his beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. Carl’s three favorite things to do were probably talking, laughing and eating and he especially loved when all three happened at the same time.
Carl was preceded in death by Nelda, his wife of 66 years, his eldest daughter, Debra and her infant son, Eli. He is survived by his children, Terri Bowles, Todd Bowles (Aaron); his three grandchildren, Olivia Hodges Bauer (Matt), Elaina Hodges (Mark) and Ian Hodges (Ryan); and three great grandchildren, Leah, Levi and Anderson.
Carl’s departure would be unbearable for his family and friends were it not for his certainty that this life is merely a steppingstone on our way to being with the Lord forever. Carl’s strong faith was the foundation of his life and at the end, he was so looking forward to a reunion with family and meeting our Heavenly Father.
Carl’s family and friends will be celebrating his ministry, his life and his 3 favorite things at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 6th, at Oak Grove Christian church, 5 Morris Rd., Arden, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Bethany Christian Services of North Carolina or perform a deed of kindness for someone in Carl’s memory.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Dear Todd and Terri, The obiturary is a lovely tribute to your father. He must have been an amazing man. I continue to think of you and pray for your family during this time. Lovingly, Cynthia Heafner
My Best Buddy, Mr Carl. How I miss you! See how his eyes shine First thing that came to mind is "And his eyes shined with light of the Lord, for in all things GOD is good. THE wonder and faith in him is how we shall rejoice forever in heaven " I WISH YOU ALL COULD KNOW THE PEACE IT GAVE ME. Mr Carl was minister long after his retirement. We held church with every meeting of our hearts. Whether it was while I was making him biscuits or we were out walking around a thrift or Rural King . Jesus was always present. Some say I was there to help he and Miss Nelda. But I think they helped me more. I can't begin to give them thanks enough for the change they made to my faith and my path. I AM ONLY HELD HERE ON EARTH BY THE NEED TO COMPLETE MY PATH. When I have met my mission here, I too will rejoice in heaven with you!
To my dearest uncle. I hate to see you go but now I know your with God. You were a great father and loved the lord. We are going to miss you very much. You were a Godly man and you showed us every day. May the lord be with you. Love your nephew Marlin.