Edith Marie Bowles

Edith Marie "Dooder" (Aston) Bowles, age 96, passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and love that will be

treasured for generations. Edith was born on January 6, 1930, in Greenfield, New Mexico, to Robert Haney Aston and

Olive Louilla (Baxley) Aston. She graduated from Dexter High School in May of 1948 and, just days later, on May 16, married the love of her life, Elbert Leonidous "Leon" Bowles, at her parents' home in Dexter, New Mexico. Their marriage marked the beginning of a devoted partnership rooted in faith, family, and steadfast love. Leon and Edith welcomed their first child, Sheila Eileen (Bowles) Smith, In September 1949. In August, 1954, they welcomed their second child, Sherry Kathleen, whose life was brief but deeply cherished. After a season of grief, their family grew again with the birth of their son, Robert Powell Bowles, in January, 1956. Edith's life revolved around what mattered most; her family, her faith, and her church. A lifelong homemaker, hospitality was truly her gift. If you entered Edith's home, you were met with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of coffee or something delicious cooking because with Edith, it was always "desserts first." She found joy in cooking, yard work, and being at and involved in church activities. Edith had a beautiful, natural gift for sitting with the elderly and those in need offering her time, her listening ear, and her gentle presence. Many whose lives were touched by her kindness in this way are likely gathered here today, carrying her love with them. Her family treasures countless memories and sayings that will live on in their hearts: "Pants went to Juarez," "I smell a Coke," "Sug, I sure do love you," “My little angel" and her matter-of-fact but endearing remark, "I don't intend to live to be 100". Edith lived out the wisdom she shared so freely, often reminding others, "Always follow the Lord. Let Him lead you," and "Never let your differences cause you to have hate in your heart-you'll never know when their time comes, and you don't have closure." Edith's proudest and most treasured accomplishments were her family-immediate and extended and her church, both of which she loved deeply and served faithfully throughout her life.

Edith was a lifelong member of the Eastside Church of Christ in Dexter, New Mexico, where her faith was nurtured and her example of Christian love was clearly seen.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents Robert & Olive Aston; her beloved husband, Leon Bowles;

her brother, Morris “Nook” Aston; her sister, Edna "Tade" Aston; and her daughter, Sherry Kathleen Bowles.

Edith is survived by her loving family:

Children Sheila Smith of Dexter, NM, Robert and Lenora Bowles of Dexter, NM. Grandchildren Allen Sudduth (Yolanda) of San Angelo, TX, Aimee Vrba (Tony) of Roswell, NM, Ashley Buchanan (Braden) of Searcy, AR, Alyssa Sudduth of Dexter, NM & Joseph Bowles of Dexter, NM

Great-Grandchildren Trey Sudduth and Isaac Sudduth of San Angelo, TX, Taylor Noble (Charmayne) of Dexter, NM, Sariah Bertrand of Roswell, NM, Jake Buchanan and Lillie Buchanan of Searcy, AR, Christopher Caine of Roswell, NM Hunter Collins of Dexter, NM & Cooper Bowles of Dexter, NM

Great-Great-Grandchildren Drayven Noble and Alana Noble of Dexter, NM, Raidenkhai Dodds and Kydee Dodds of Roswell, NM Sisters Frances Roach of Cortez, CO, Gloria (Aston) Mouton of Paradise, TX & an abundance of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Edith's interim hospice team and home health team

for their continued excellent and loving care, comfort, and compassion