Madisonville, KY - Jerry Wayne Bowles of Madisonville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on March 3, 2026, at the age of 78.

Jerry was born on September 3, 1947, in Bluefield, West Virginia, to the late William Hannon Bowles and Lena Marie Bowles. He grew up in Bluefield, Virginia and graduated from Graham High School.

Jerry spent much of his professional life in the mining supply industry throughout the tri-state area, serving as General Manager of Special Mine Services in Greenville, Kentucky, where he remained until retirement at age 70.

He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Dawn Bowles of Daniels, West Virginia, and his son, William Wayne Bowles of Los Angeles, California; five grandchildren, Steven Alexander Saunders, Grace Campbell Faugl, Kathryn Mikael Ferguson, Kenzo Knight Bowles, and Julien Jintaro Bowles; one great grandchild Hannon Haze Faugl; and his longtime partner, Deborah Sanders of Melbourne, Florida.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his older sister, Shirley Iverine Yates.

Jerry will be remembered by family and friends for his charming nature and natural gift of conversation. He loved the mountains of Appalachia, good stories shared among friends, and sipping bourbon while singing along to live music late into the night. He also enjoyed quieter moments to himself, fishing or taking long drives.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held along the waters on East River Mountain in Virginia in mid-May. Details are available upon request. Instead of flowers or donations, the family asks that you honor Jerry by doing one of the following in the days ahead:

- Drive to the top of the nearest mountain just to look around

- Take a walk through your local park and speak to every passerby

- Make a stranger feel welcome and at ease

- Tell that same stranger all about your children

- Adopt a sheltered dog or feed a neighborhood stray cat

- Keep a fishing pole in your car and cast a line on the way home — even if only for fifteen minutes

- Watch the 'Cats play ball, swear you'll never watch them again, and then watch them again

- Call an old friend you haven't spoken to in far too long

- Tell a story you haven't told in many years

- Indulge in a few foods you probably shouldn't eat

- Bring home leftovers so your dog can enjoy them too

- Host friends for an evening of drinks — but only if they bring instruments

- Shout out the next song just as things seem to be winding down

- Visit your parents often and tell them you love them — they are the best friends you will ever have

- Call your children or grandchildren, and never be the first one to hang up

- Make plans to see them all again.