Austin Leroy Bowers

In the early hours of Wednesday May 31, 2023 Austin Leroy Bowers left his earthly home to be with the Lord. He had been suffering from an extended illness and his heath had been declining. He was surrounded by all his loved ones. Leroy was born in Philippi, WV on June 8, 1939 to the late Herbert Paul and Eula Lillian (Boots) Kerr Bowers. He was united in marriage to his one love, Judy (Anglin) Bowers on August 18, 1972. He leaves behind his loving wife; they had just celebrated 50 years of marriage this past year but had been together for almost 64 years. She was an amazing caregiver to him especially over the past two years. Leroy also leaves behind his two daughters, Nikki Bowers and Chad Richards of Philippi and Shelly Bowers Gray and Robert Gray of Philippi. He had three grandchildren, the loves of his life. Adrian Gray, Owen Gray and Kaylin Gray. His family was his whole life. Leroy is also survived by one sister, Janet Shaffer and Bob Shaffer; brothers-in-law, Jon Anglin and Kelly of Philippi; Jeff Anglin and Tina of Philippi, Gary Anglin and Peggy of NC; two sisters-in-law, Joyce Miller and Glenn of Webster Co., and Jackie Ravis of Bridgeport; and several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Paulette Moats and one brother-in-law, Tom Ravis. He was a member of Crim Memorial Church and also attended St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church with his family for many years. He graduated from Philippi High School and attended Alderson Broaddus College to be a High School Math Teacher. In his younger days he worked at Baughman’s Grocery, also as a mail carrier and for the City of Philippi. It was there he was approached about a new bank opening in Barbour Co. He went to work at the Barbour County Bank upon its opening and worked there for 35 Years. Leroy was a huge sports fan, always following the Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and Mountaineers. He never got excited unless his teams weren’t performing up to his standards. He was an avid collector of many things including sports cards and memorabilia, antiques, stamps, and comic books. He loved collecting and traveling all over to ball card shows and conventions and just talking and meeting with people. He also had a love for History and was very involved in researching genealogy. He was a part of getting Pop Warner Football and Little League baseball in Barbour Co. Often times he would travel and pick up kids just so they would have a chance to play when otherwise they wouldn’t. It was important to him that we all have an opportunity. He was a member of many organizations including the Barbour Co. Historical Society, many stamps/philatelic groups. He was President of the Barbour County Band Booster from 1990-1994. Leroy was one of the kindest, most caring and most loving of men. He loved his family so very much and was so loved in return. Leroy will be missed by all who knew and loved him.