Earl Ralph “Big Eye-Poppy” Bowers Jr. April 21, 1938 – July 21, 2026

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven” Matthew 5:16

Earl Ralph “Poppy” Bowers Jr., age 88, of Elizabethton, Tennessee, passed away peacefully and went home to be with his Lord on July 21, 2026.

Ralph was born on April 21, 1938, in Elizabethton, Tennessee, to the late Earl Ralph Bowers Sr. and Edith Fair Bowers. A 1955 graduate of Elizabethton High School, Ralph answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy at the age of eighteen where he became a member of the Fighter Squadron One Seven Four. He was a proud American and faithfully served his nation with honor as well as being a member of the Navy’s Elite Fast pitch softball team in Pensacola, Florida.

Upon returning home from military service, Ralph married the love of his life, Carol Ann Richardson. Together they shared a beautiful life and recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.

Ralph was a twenty-year Mason and a lifelong member of First Free Will Baptist Church in Elizabethton, where he faithfully served in many capacities throughout the years, including Sunday School teacher, Superintendent of Youth, Deacon, and Trustee. His unwavering faith was evident in every aspect of his life.

In 1953, Ralph was one of the original “Cat Island Boys” who helped erect the well-known crosses atop Lynn Mountain, a cherished landmark that continues to be enjoyed by the residents of Elizabethton and Carter County today.

A talented athlete, Ralph was widely known throughout the region as a standout catcher in fast‑pitch softball. His nickname, “Big Eye,” was earned during the years he played alongside lifelong friends and pitchers Richard “Jarfly” Dugger and Kenneth “Tater Nose” Hardin. Following his softball career, he devoted many years to coaching youth baseball, mentoring countless young people in the community and leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Ralph retired as a Supervisor from Nuclear Fuels in 1994 and later from Morrill Motors in 2006. Throughout his career, he formed many lifelong friendships and was respected, admired, and loved by his coworkers and team members.

Above all, Ralph touched the lives of everyone he met through his compassion, humility, and quiet grace. He sincerely loved others as Jesus did, and his life will be remembered as one marked by faith, integrity, kindness, and love.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife and best friend of 62 years, Carol Ann Richardson Bowers; his son, David Brian Bowers and wife, Brandy; his granddaughter, Megan Bowers White and husband, Andrew; his grandson, Samuel Q. Bowers; and his great-grandson, Bauer Everett White, whom Ralph lovingly referred to as “his Pooter.”

He is also survived by his sister, Susann Bowling and family; his special cousin, Anne Fair Ingram; and his special friend, Steve Hilman.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Judy and Victor Deloach, Tiffany Jenkins, and the compassionate and dedicated staff of Ivy Hall Nursing Home. Your loving care and support during Ralph’s final days will forever be remembered with gratitude.

Receiving of friends will be held on Sunday, July 26th at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Elizabethton from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., with the funeral service to immediately follow. The service will be conducted by Pastor Gary Roe, with a closing prayer offered by Grady Holder. Music will be under the direction of Loren Harris and will include several of Ralph’s favorite hymns. Graveside burial will be conducted Monday July 27th at the VA Mountain Home Cemetery in Johnson City at 10:00 a.m.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Sam Bradshaw, Richard “Jarfly” Dugger, Victor Deloach, Jerry Hamm, Larry Davis, Dillard Sholes, Con Nave, Billy Ingram, Larry Burrow, Darrell Wagner, Brian Williams and Forrest Bowling.

Active Pallbearers will be: Larry Absher, Lance Dugger, Andrew White, Andrew McKeehan, George Guinn, and Trampas Bowers.

Ralph’s legacy of faith, service, friendship, and love will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Condolences may be sent to our website: www.memorialfcelizabethton.com. Family and friends will assemble at the cemetery at 9:50a.m. Monday

Memorial Funeral Chapel is serving the Bowers Family