William Randolph Bowden, 75, of Bassett, died Wednesday, April 6, 2016, at his home. He was born on July 26, 1940 and was a son of the late Gilbert and Delma Bowden. He was also preceded in death by four brothers, Cecil Bowden Jr., Leonard Bowden, Bobby Bowden and Richard Bowden; and a sister, Dorothy Newman. He was a veteran of the United States Army and retired from Tultex with over 40 years of service. He was also an ordained minister and deacon and retired from Fort Trial Baptist Church as custodian after 14 years of service. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Diana Bowden; daughters, Vicki B. Gilley of Patrick Springs, Debbie B. Ziegler of Reidsville, N.C., Cindy B. Dickerson of Martinsville; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and brothers, Thomas L. Bowden and James L. Bowden. The funeral service was held Friday at Mill Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Henry with Dr. Brian Goard and the Rev. Tom Teems officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Arrangements were by Bassett Funeral Service.
