Florence Loretta Bowling entered this life on July 10, 1923 and was called to heaven on December 27, 2022, upon attaining the life span of 99 years, 5 months, 17 days. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family members. Loretta professed her faith in Jesus Christ at an early age, and reaffirmed that faith in later years.

Born to Jesse Ayres and Walsie (Hampton) Ayres in Galloway, MO, Loretta grew up with her brothers in Taney County Missouri. At age 17 her family moved to Arizona in search of better work opportunities. There she met the love of her life, Pat Bowling. They were united in marriage on 10/03/1942. At the time of Loretta's death, she kept that marriage in her heart for 80 years.

Loretta and Pat moved their young family back to Missouri in 1957, buying a farm in the rural community of Elk Creek, where her greatest love outside her family was working on the family farm, gardening and preserving the fruits of her labor. Loretta also enjoyed hosting large family get-togethers, sewing, crocheting, knitting and quilting. She was an inspiration to her children to work hard and be independent.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Walsie Ayres; her husband, Pat Bowling; 1 son, Bobby Bowling; 3 brothers, Lloyd, Ed and Gene Ayres and 1 granddaughter. She is survived by sons, David (Linda) and Jerry Bowling; 1 daughter, Anita (Ivan) Hudgens; 12 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren as well as great-great grandchildren. Loretta will be sorely missed by all.