James "Ray" Rowles (80) of Nixa, Missouri born January 10, 1939 in Boonville, MO passed away December 17, 2019 in Springfield, MO.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Dorthy Rowles and brother, Wayne, all of Tipton, MO.

Ray was united in marriage to Patricia Cartner of Eldon, MO in 1961.  They were blessed with three daughters: Stacy Simpson (Brooks) of Iowa City, IA, Kelly Miller (Chris) of Springfield, MO and Jill Rowles of Anaconda, MT.  He is also survived by five grandchildren: Ryan Simpson (Jodi), Katelyn Abdo (Steven), all of Iowa City, IA, Clayton Hester of Al Udeid Air Force Base in Doha, Qatar, Tricia Hester of Springfield, MO and Haley Davis of Anaconda, MT.  Ray also leaves behind a long-time friend and companion, Judy Peoples.

Ray graduated Tipton High School in 1956 and promptly joined the United States Navy, serving until 1960.  He, then, began college at CMSU in Warrensburg, MO graduating in 1965.  He began a career in teaching, but later found his love in sales.  After spending many years traveling, he settled his career in Cedar Rapids, IA.  After several years, Ray returned back home to Missouri and settled in the Springfield area.

Ray had a love for his family; his girls, grandchildren, his friends, HIS HEAVENLY FATHER, and the St. Louis Cardinals!  He was also a big fan of country music and Elvis.  He really did have a decent Elvis impersonation, which he did not hesitate to share.  Ray was a ball of energy and liked to stay busy.  He had a hard time sitting still, that is except for his early bedtime, at 6pm.  When he walked in the room, it was his infectious smile and fun-loving personality that grabbed your attention.  He had a way of making people laugh and smile.  He believed in staying positive through life's ups and downs.  His positivity was contagious and had an impact on others.

Visitation will be Friday, December 27, 2019 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.  Graveside service will follow at 1:00 PM in White Chapel Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.