Pastor L. Ray Sowder

Pastor L. Ray Sowder, age 69, of Eaton, passed away Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at Kettering Medical Center in Kettering. He was born February 12, 1951 in Dayton, to Betty J. (Land) Sowder and the late Harold (Woody) Sowder.  Ray was pastor of Abundant Heart In Christ Church, which was founded by him and his wife Candy .He also worked in the asphalt paving industry including many years at M&M Paving, Becker Blacktop, Back-2-Black, and his own company Sowder Sealcoat. Ray was a talented musician, playing the guitar and singing with fellow musicians in the area, and after dedicating his life to the gospel of Jesus Christ, used his music to glorify God and the Savior. He was always happiest when he was preaching the Word, baptizing a new Believer , or praising the Lord..  He is survived by his mother Betty J. Sowder of Eaton; his wife of 37 years, Candy L. Sowder of Eaton; daughter Kelly Sowder of Florida; son Joseph Sowder of Kettering; son Steven Sowder of New Paris; son Brian Sowder of Eaton; daughter Lacey Artz of Eaton; grandchildren: Kayna Reid, Tyler Snyder, Blayze Freeman, Elizabeth Sowder, Dallas Sowder, Brian Ray Davis, Jr., Matthew Sowder, Zachary Sowder, Autumn Greenough, Dakota Greenough, James Sowder, Hunter Sowder and Faith Sowder; great grandchildren: Makenna, Makiah, Rylee, Christopher, Natalie, Nena, Madeline and Everly.; spiritual daughter Peggy Wilson; and a host of special friends and church family.  A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.  A memorial service will be announced later next spring of 2021.   Girton Schmidt & Boucher Gard Funeral Home, Eaton is assisting with arrangements.  Burial will be at Mound Hill Cemetery in Eaton.  Memorial contributions may be sent to Ray Sowder Benefit, ℅ Somerville National Bank. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gsbfuneralhome.com.