Donald Ray "Brother Ray" Bowyer

Donald Ray "Brother Ray" Bowyer, born on October 8, 1940, in Clark County, IN, passed away on December 9, 2025, in New Washington, IN. He was a man of the community, known for his strong faith and unwavering support for those in need.

Brother Ray’s professional journey began early in life when he worked at Colgate. However, it was his calling into ministry that became the cornerstone of his life’s work. For more than 40 years, he served as the pastor of Pleasant View Baptist Church, guiding and nurturing his congregation with compassion and dedication. Even in his retirement, his commitment to spiritual service did not wane; instead, he willingly offered his support to New Washington Christian Church to help them until they could find a full-time pastor, fulfilling that role for five additional years. Brother Ray was widely regarded as the community pastor of New Washington and surrounding areas, leaving an indelible mark on many lives throughout his ministry.

Outside of his pastoral duties, Brother Ray had a rich personality that endeared him to many. He enjoyed playing board games, particularly Risk and Monopoly, which he often played with family and friends. His love for travel took him to the Smoky Mountains, Florida, Hawaii, and he cherished the joy of cruising. A culinary enthusiast, he frequently dined at Chinese buffets, Cracker Barrel, Bob Evans, and was a fan of McDonald's Coffee Club. He also enjoyed classic Westerns, enjoying films featuring John Wayne and The Lone Ranger.

Brother Ray leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, remembered fondly by his family. He is survived by his children: Billy Bowyer and his wife Angie of Sellersburg, Indiana; Donnie Bowyer and his wife Tammy of Scottsburg, Indiana; and Karen Jeakins and her husband Mike of New Washington, Indiana. He is also mourned by his brother, Jimmie Bowyer and his wife Rhonda of Louisville, Kentucky. His grandchildren Maegan Knasel, Josh Bowyer, Ashley Howerton and her husband Matt, Lauren Bowyer, Rebecca Nash, Kelsey Bowyer, Kalena White and her husband Kendall, and Michaela Jeakins will carry his memory forward, along with his great-grandchildren Tylar, Audrey, Jules, Serenity, Jaxon, Patterson, and Hailey.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 50 years, Ann Bowyer and his brother, Claude Bowyer Jr., whose memory will forever be cherished.

Visitation for Donald Ray "Brother Ray" Bowyer will take place at Grayson Funeral Home in Charlestown on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A second visitation will be held at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Marysville on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in Hibernia Cemetery.

His impact and spirit will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege to know him.

Memorial expressions can be made to either New Washington Christian Church or Pleasant View Baptist Church. Memories and messages of support for the family can be shared at www.GraysonFuneralHome.com.