Ronnie Bowers

Ronnie Shelton Bowers, 79, of Mandeville, Louisiana, passed away on July 25, 2020, at his home after a battle with Alzheimer’s and COVID-19. He was born on May 1, 1941, to Jettie and Bill Bowers, in Glade Springs, Virginia. He lived in many locations throughout his childhood but settled in New Orleans when he was 13. He attended John McDonogh High School and graduated in 1959. After a brief stint in the Navy, he attended the University of New Orleans and went to work for Winn-Dixie. He was employed in several positions with the grocery store chain for a total of 43 years, including assistant store manager, store manager, frozen foods buyer, and lastly as Human Resources Supervisor for the New Orleans Division, a position he held for 23 years. He retired in 2003. He was an avid golfer and member of Covington Country Club. He loved reading, watching the Saints, traveling, and spending time with his family. He served as a deacon at Downman Road Baptist Church and Lake Forest Baptist Church in New Orleans and Memorial Baptist Church in Metairie.  He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Ann; son, Michael (Jenny) of Tupelo, Mississippi; daughter, Ann of Lafayette, Louisiana; step daughters Melissa Strikmiller of Mandeville; Courtney Gravois (Michael) of New Orleans; and Kimberly LaBasse (Kevin) of Mandeville. Grandchildren include Natalie (17), Caleb (14), Trey (12), Alexus (23), Kristen (18), Madilyn (13), Michael (5), Charlotte (3), Miles (1), Kylee (13), and Kaiden (6). Siblings include his sister, Rosalie Schoell (William) of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and brother, Roger (Mary), of Whittier, California. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents and brother, Norman.   A Memorial Service will be held Friday, July 31, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Bagnell & Son Funeral Home 75212 Lee Rd., Covington, LA 70435. Visitation from 11:00 a.m. until service time. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.