Elbert "Buddy" Wray Bowen, 90, passed away on December 29, 2023 at Wendover Hospice of Shelby, NC.

Born in Cleveland county on December 24, 1933, he was the son of the late Broadus B. Bowen and the late Fannie May Ledford Bowen. In addition to his parents, Buddy is preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Faye Bowen, his brother, Harvey B. Bowen, Sr. and three sisters, Hazel Bowen McCraw, Elva May Bowen Rollins, and Shirley Bowen Wright..

Survivors include Phillip Ray Bowen, wife Jennifer Bowen, and grandsons Zachary Bowen and William Bowen, as well as special friend Edna Wright. Also left to cherish his memory are several nieces, nephews and extended family.

Buddy graduated from Piedmont High School. He retired from Dover/Doran Textiles where he worked for over 40 years. He will also be remembered as a faithful and active member of Doubles Shoals United Methodist Church, where he once served as a trustee. Elbert was an avid Tarheel fan and long time supporter of the Shelby High School Golden Lions football program. His greatest treasure was his grandchildren who will carry on his memory.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, January 2, 2023 in the Chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home with Rev. Kim Clardy officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the service at Cleveland Memorial Park.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Double Shoals United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 548, Lawndale, NC 28090.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is compassionately serving the family of Mr. Buddy Bowen.