In the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Troy Lee Bowden, 72, of Electra, Texas, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away at his home in the loving arms of his family.

Troy was born on November 29, 1953, in Electra, Texas, to Barbara and O.L. “Curley” Bowden. He was a lifelong resident of Electra, a community he loved deeply and proudly called home. Throughout his life, Troy was known for his faith, steady work ethic, kindness, and his constant willingness to help others.

Troy attended Electra schools and graduated from EHS with the class of 1972. Soon after, in 1978, he married the love of his life, Cindy Kelley, in Electra, Texas. Their marriage was built on love, faith, and a deep commitment to family and community. Troy and Cindy had three children and built their life raising this family together. They created a family filled with deep love, unwavering loyalty, and a bond that is truly something special—one that would carry them through every season of life.

Troy, Cindy, and their children created many cherished memories over the years, especially during summers spent together in Magdalena and Red River, New Mexico. Troy found joy in many things, including his lifelong passion for cars and racing. He especially loved drag racing his 1966 Flyin’ Falcon race car. Music was another important part of his life, a passion that began in his youth and remained with him throughout the years. He could often be found playing the piano, and during his years at Electra High School, he played saxophone in the Electra High School Tiger Band. Yet, of all the things Troy enjoyed, nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with Cindy, his children, and his 11 grandchildren. His love for his family was constant and unwavering, and they were truly his greatest pride and joy.

Troy spent 20 years as a respected auto mechanic in Electra and Midland, Texas, followed by 14 years operating the gas plant in Electra. In 2004, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Midwestern State University, beginning a second career in education. After teaching science at Burkburnett Middle School and mathematics at Electra High School for 16 years, he retired in May 2020.

Serving others and giving back to the community he loved were always priorities for Troy. Throughout childhood, he was a Boy Scout, and when his own children were young, he continued that tradition of service as a Cub Scout leader. He coached Little League Baseball for many years, sharing special times with his son while sharing lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and character with all involved.

Troy was a lifelong member of the Catholic community in Electra. He served as a youth altar server in his local parish and continued to serve his church community at St. Paul Catholic Church in Electra as a lector and youth leader. Through both his words and his example, he taught his children the value of a faith-filled life and encouraged them to grow closer to God.

Troy is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; his children, Andrea Ketchersid and husband Keith, Brandace Hardy and husband Ryan, and Stephen Bowden; and his grandchildren, Camryn, Aaron, and Reagan Ketchersid; Berkley, Anniston, Gracen, and Baylor Hardy; and Kaydrin, Abigail, Wyatt, and Peyton Bowden. He is also survived by his brother, Benny Bowden, and sister, Donna Bowden, as well as many cherished family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, and a multitude of loved ones who we believe were there to welcome him home at the time of his passing.

Troy leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love. Though he will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, August 29, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Electra, Texas. Interment will immediately follow in Mt. Carmel Cemetery under the direction of Aulds Funeral Home.

A Rosary and Vigil service will be held Friday, August 28, beginning at 6:00 p.m., also at St. Paul Catholic Church. The family will receive visitors in the church parish hall from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. following the Rosary and Vigil service.

The family welcomes memorials to Saint Paul Altar Society, 1015 Lanelle Street, Iowa Park, Texas 76367 or to Hospice of Wichita Falls, 4909 Johnson Road, Wichita Falls, Texas 76310.