Forest……Melvin Winston Bowling, age 87, of Forest died Monday, September 18, 2023 at his residence.

Born June 13, 1936 in Bedford County, he was a son of the late James Mathew Bowling and Carrie Marie Dellis Bowling.  He was predeceased by his wife, Virginia Owen Bowling; an infant daughter; and an infant brother, Robert Bowling.  Mr. Bowling was a member of Greenfield Baptist Church.  After graduating from National Business College, he was employed by Peoples Bank of Gretna where he worked in various capacities until retiring as President. He also enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, and working on his farm.

He is survived by two daughters,  Lori Jones and husband, Darrell of Collinsville, and Lana Dove of Forest; one sister, Brenda Utley and husband, Donald, of Lynchburg; and two grandchildren, Alyssa Reeves and husband, Chris, of Axton, and Andrew Jones of New Jersey.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 22, 2023 at Greenfield Baptist Church by Rev. R.G. Rowland and Rev. Matt Rhodes.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Colbert-Moran Funeral Home.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to Greenfield Baptist Church, P.O. Box 875, Gretna, VA 24557.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.