Joel Rickles "Ricky" Bowers, age 72, of Rockmart, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in Rome, Georgia. Born on September 14, 1953, in Rockmart, Ricky lived a life defined by his love for his family, his unwavering faith, his competitive spirit, and his dedication to serving others.

Ricky was born and raised in Rockmart to the late Joel P. Bowers and Mary Rickles Bowers. As an only child, he developed an independent spirit and a strong work ethic that would characterize him throughout his life. He graduated from Rockmart High School, where his love for athletics began. Sports remained a lifelong passion, but no game ever captured his heart quite like golf. Golf was far more than a hobby for Ricky—it was one of the great joys of his life. A fierce competitor with an unwavering determination to improve, he earned the distinction of Club Champion at multiple golf courses where he played or held membership. He even shared the course record (63) at Goodyear Golf Course with James Strange. Whether competing in tournaments or enjoying a round with family and friends, Ricky's love for the game was evident to everyone who knew him. He cherished the friendships formed on the course and the challenge that each round brought.

Above all else, Ricky's greatest love was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Pam Bowers, and a proud father to Drew Bowers, Matthew Bowers, Matt Norton, and Hailey Wright. He found immeasurable joy in being "Paw" to his grandchildren, Eli, Tucker, Aiden, Kensi, Asher, Cora, Ava Joy, and James. Time spent with his family (and Aubie, his dog) created many of his happiest memories, and his love, encouragement, and sense of humor will remain with them always. Ricky was a faithful member of Victory Baptist Church in Rockmart, where he worshiped, served, and invested in the lives of others. His faith was evident not only in his attendance but also in his willingness to serve. He faithfully volunteered each week with the church's food pantry ministry, helping provide for families in need and demonstrating Christ's love through quiet acts of service. Those who knew Ricky will remember his competitive nature, his love of laughter, and his genuine enjoyment of spending time with those he cared about. Whether on the golf course, serving at church, or gathering with family and/or telling stories with friends, he had a way of making lasting memories and building meaningful relationships. His life was marked by perseverance, generosity, and a desire to leave every place a little better than he found it. He is survived by his loving wife, Pam Bowers; his children, Drew Bowers (Leslie), Matthew Bowers (Shawna), Matt Norton, and Hailey Wright; and his cherished grandchildren, Eli, Tucker, Aiden, Kensi, Asher, Cora, Ava Joy, and James. He was preceded in death by his father, Joel P. Bowers, and his mother, Mary Rickles Bowers.

Funeral services for Ricky will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church, 15 Hendrix Road, Cedartown, Georgia 30125, with Pastor Barry Snapp and Jonathan Blackmon officiating. Interment will follow at Polk Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 12:00 noon until 2:30 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church prior to the funeral service.

Though Ricky will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the faith he demonstrated, the family he loved so dearly, the countless friendships he cultivated, and the lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and competitive spirit. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him.

The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to PGA of America Reach Foundation in honor of Mr. Bowers' at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/Va6ALg?vid=1rigyn. 

The Salmon Funeral Home Family is honored to serve and care for one of our own, Mr. Joel "Ricky" Bowers, and his precious family.