The Richmond News, Feb. 20, 2026

Larry Franklin Bowman, 77, of Richmond passed away Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Larry was born Aug. 18, 1948, in Excelsior Springs, the son of Reed Joseph “Jep” and Jennie Louise (Mason) Bowman. He was united in marriage to Janice “Harlene” O’Dell of Richmond on April 20, 1974, the love of his life. Together, they celebrated 51 years of marriage. She survives of the home.

Additional survivors include his three sons, Chad Bowman of Hardin, Brian (Danielle) Bowman of Richmond and Jeff Bowman of Richmond; and eight grandchildren, Chloe Bowman, Kalel Bowman, Noah Bowman, Abe Arthur, Eli Bowman, Tatum Bowman, Peyton (Garrett) Pennington and Karsyn Bowman.

His great-granddaughter, Navy June Morrissey; sister, Sue (Ritchie) Carter of Pleasant Hill; two brothers, William (Lisa) Bowman of Grain Valley and Ron (Jeanie) Bowman of Surprise, Ariz.; two sisters-in-law, Barb Hardwick and Diane (Eddie) Camp; brother-in-law, Jim (Vicki) O’Dell; and many nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James “Corky” Bowman; and brother-in-law, Jimmy Wayne Hardwick.

Larry was raised and educated in the Camden and Richmond areas and was a proud 1966 graduate of Richmond High School.

Several years later, in 1969, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. Larry attained the rank of sergeant, operating a 155 Howitzer, and was awarded the Bronze Star for his courageous and dedicated service – a distinction he carried with quiet pride throughout his life.

Larry spent his entire working life in the Richmond grocery business, building not only a career but lifelong relationships within the community he loved. His journey began in 1963 at United Super under Jim Johnston, where he started as a carryout. After serving in Vietnam, he returned home and resumed his work there.

In 1977, when Bob MacDonald purchased the store, Larry became store manager at Bob’s United Super. In 1980, the business moved to its new location in the Richmond shopping center; and in 1985, Larry became a partner, alongside Bob MacDonald and Butch Bowman.

Through the years, the store saw many name changes – from IGA to Piggly Wiggly to Apple Market – but these things never changed: the quality service, friendly hometown atmosphere and willingness to help anyone in need. Larry was always there, working alongside the rest of the crew, quietly providing for the less fortunate in the community, no questions asked. He never knew a stranger and was often the first to step forward when someone needed help.

In 2013, he retired after celebrating 50 remarkable years serving the Richmond community.

Outside of work, Larry’s greatest joy was his family. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren, and cherished every moment spent with them. In his children’s early years, dirt bike racing became a family passion, with Larry proudly serving as coach, mentor and biggest supporter. Later in life, some of their favorite memories were made at the lake, enjoying time together and simply being present with one another.

He was affectionately known as “Beaver” by his close friends.

Larry also had a knack for finding a good deal. He loved attending auctions and gathering treasures for his own garage sales – not so much for the profit, but for the opportunity to visit with the people who stopped by. For Larry, it was always about the conversation, the connection and the community.

Larry was of the Christian faith and a member of the Richmond Christian Union Church.

He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Richmond Christian Union Church or the Humane Society of Ray County. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 21, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and services to follow at 11. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond. Military honors will be provided by the Army and Ray County Veterans.

Please share your memories of Larry with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.