William Russell (Willie) Bowles, 63, of Covington, Virginia, died Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at Lewis-Gale Alleghany in Low Moor.

Willie was born September 11, 1958 in Oak Hill, Ohio, a son of the late George William and Virginia Morris Bowles.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Phillip "Slim" Bowles in 1981.

Mr. Bowles served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He was a pipefitter and crane operator for D.D. Kerns Construction and Waco, Inc for many years.

In his spare time, Willie loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and enjoyed attending their recitals and ballgames. He loved kayaking and was an avid golfer. He was a lifelong Ohio sports fan, cheering on his Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Indians, and Cleveland Browns. Willie was also a NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt, Sr. fan. Last but certainly not least, he enjoyed his home on the river he made with the love of his life, Carla.

Surviving are his wife, Carla Bowles, of Covington; a daughter, Heather and Logan Carlisle of Roanoke; two sons, Andy and Meghan Kirby and Adam Kirby, all of Covington; grandchildren, Allyssa Cole of Roanoke, Kenton Kirby and Konnor Kirby of Covington; two brothers, Robert and Brenda Bowles of Millersburg, OH, nd Dave and Jenny Bowles of Glenmont, OH; a sister, Cheryll and Jeff Shireman of Guttenburg, IA; sisters and brothers-in-law, Debbie Walker (Dale Simmons) and Rocky and Becky Floyd, all of Beckley, WV; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful Golden Retriever companion, Buckeye "Buck".

In keeping with Mr. Bowles' wishes, his body has been cremated.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 11, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in the Arritt Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Steve Richards officiating.

The family will receive their friends following the service.

Friends attending the service are asked to write down a memory or story about Willie and share it with the family.

The Arritt Funeral Home, Covington, Virginia, is handling the arrangements.