Rick Bowers, age 51 of Maryville, went home to be with Jesus, Monday May 22, 2006. He was a member of R.I.O. Central. He was preceded in death by parents, Charles and Maudie Cable Bowers. Survivors, wife, Karen Bowers; daughter, Karenda Bowers; son and daughter-in-law, Jay and Summer Garland of Maryville; grandchildren, Taya and Gage; sister, Gail Lynn of Maryville; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ruth and J.R. Cardin of Maryville; brother-in-law and wife, Gary and Mary Atchley of Maryville; several nieces and nephews. Memorial service Thursday May 25, 2006 at R.I.O. Central, 370 S. Longhollow Rd. Maryville, TN. Revs. Ronnie Hepperly, Randall Dixon, Chris Boruff, and Ryan Hearon officiating. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to R.I.O. Central Mission Fund, 370 S. Longhollow Rd. Maryville, TN. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the church. Arrangements made by Miller Funeral Home, Maryville. www.millerfuneralhome.org

Sandy Smith Dockery: 

Ricky Bowers was a gentle giant. Didn't remember him from school but got to know him well in 2002. He would come to the Chilhowee Baptist Center and donate his time. He would hand out groceries, sing and give a service for the clients there. Many times he would have to use a wheelchair due to his ill health. And all the while he would say he was blessed because he had woke up that morning. There was a time in Hoss's life that he was doing everything but living for the Lord but he allowed the Lord to change him. He had a sweet voice and had a heart for the hurting. I miss him.