Committal
Nelda Mae Gaines Bowles, beloved wife and mother, passed from this life on Thursday, August 3, 2023.
Born in rural southwest Virginia on August 25, 1937, Nelda had a lifelong love of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 19, she married the love of her life, Carl. Later she moved to her home of 58 years, Morganton. In Morganton, she worked at various department stores but loved most the people she met and worked with at Lazarus. Nelda’s greatest legacy is her family, her faith, and the people she touched as a minister’s wife. Nelda was a member of Bethel Church of Christ in Morganton and she helped found the Western Area Women’s Christian Fellowship.
Mrs. Bowles is survived by her children, Debra Bowles, Terri Bowles, and Todd Bowles; grandchildren, Olivia Hodges Bauer (Matt), Elaina Hodges, and Ian Hodges (Ryan); and great-grandchildren, Leah Hodges, Levi Hodges, and Anderson Eli Bauer.
Nelda was preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie Mason Gaines and Grace Bertrand King Gaines; and a grandson, Eli Brent Hodges.
The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The memorial service will follow at noon in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Celebrant Olivia Hodges Bauer officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethany Christian Services of North Carolina or perform an act of kindness in Nelda’s memory.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Leave a tribute for Nelda Mae Gaines Bowles.
Carl, Keep you and the family in our thoughts and prayers. Nelda will be missed. We thought of her as our own family. Love Burke Dialysis Staff
So sorry. Praying for the family at this time
Olivia and Family, My sincerest condolences to you and your family on the loss of your grandmother. You are in my thoughts and prayers - may you find peace with the lifetime of memories that she left for you.
Carl and Family, Nelda was one of the finest Christian women we had the pleasure of knowing. She had such a kind heart and a gentle spirit. We have such fond memories of Nelda and her family at many church services and activities. Nelda is at peace in Heaven and we have promises through Christ that we will see her again. Our prayers are for your peace and comfort through this time. Our love to all,
Nelda was a special lady and a special friend.
We are so sad to lose our aunt Nelda. She always reminded me of my mom. She was filled with love. She was so classy and always was dignified. We will miss her very much. We loved her. Marlin and Troy.
Carl and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Sweet and beautiful Nelda lives on in our hearts.
Uncle Carl and Family, we are sorry to hear of Aunt Nelda's passing. However, we are thankful she will have a glorious Homecoming in the arms of Jesus! Our prayers are with all of you. May the Prince of Peace be your Buckler and Strength. Love Tammy and Matt.
I have great memories of this beautiful and loving women. I loved when she taught our womens Sunday school class! I am sure she is meeting a lot more peoples in heaven whoes lives she touched that she was not even aware of.