Johnny Ray Dowless

Johnny Ray Dowless, 76, of Bladenboro passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at Lower Cape Fear Life Care Angel House in Whiteville, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Dowless and Lorena Pait Dowless, brother Houston Dowless, sister-in-law Christine Dowless and nephew Lynn Dickel Dowless.

Ray leaves behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Margaret “Peggy” Dowless, daughter Sheila White (CP), Angela Long and his baby Pamela Dowless (David), all of Bladenboro, one son Mickey Long (Jane) of TN, six grandchildren, C.P. White III (Erin), Jerry Ray Burney Jr. (Jami), Alicia White Wimert (Charles), Jeffery Burney (Ashley), Mic Long (Bridgett), and Kendra Bailey (Brandon), two brothers Billy Dowless, Charles Dowless, 17 great grandchildren, and three fur babies, Whiney, Jolina and Susie.

Ray married his wife, Peggy, in 1969 and raised her three children as his own. He was a great provider and hardworking man. He spent many days and nights working in Bladenboro Cotton Mill and Clarkton Mill just to take care of his family. A conservative man who liked to keep everything neat and tidy. Everything he owned he took great care of as if it was worth millions. Ray was a talker, and he never met a stranger. His favorite pastimes were eating, watching sports, and giving orders.  He enjoyed listening to gospel music. Even though Ray was saved years ago, he recently rededicated his life to God. His family is eternally grateful for the time spent with him here. They will miss him but look forward to seeing him again on the other side of heaven.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 29, 2023 from 6-8 pm at the Bladenboro Chapel of Bladen Gaskins in Bladenboro. A graveside service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, September 30, 2023 in the Singletary Cemetery on Old Boardman Road in Bladenboro. The Reverend Johnny Causey will officiate the service.