Opal Garner

Ruby Opal Bowman Garner, 98, of Randleman passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. She was born August 5, 1927 in Randolph County, NC to Cash Allen Bowman and Pearl Allred Bowman. Her long life was a testament to the virtues of Christian faith, kindness, service and unwavering love for family and friends.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Jack D. Garner; her parents, Cash and Pearl Bowman; her brother, JC Bowman; and her sister, Becky Levy.

Opal was the oldest of seven children and a proud graduate of Randleman High School. She retired from a fulfilling career with Duke Power and went on to be involved in the Duke Power Retirees organization for many years. She was a dedicated member of Cedar Square Friends Meeting where she cultivated lifelong friendships grounded in shared faith and community outreach. Opal's commitment to service was steadfast. She volunteered with the St. Paul Historical Society, contributed her efforts to the Duke Retiree Volunteers, donated countless pints of blood (over 14 gallons) and was a familiar, welcoming face at the polls, where she served her community with dedication. She was known for her gardening and flowers, exceptional cooking and canning and bountiful love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her children: son Gary Garner and his wife Dot, and daughter Collette Hoover and her husband Mark. Her legacy shines brightly through her grandchildren — Page Garner (Stephanie), Cole Garner (Monica), Madison Bloomquist (Brad), and Frankie Williamson (Kyle) — and her great-grandchildren Cecilia Garner, Cash Garner, Evan Garner, Levi Garner, Everly Garner, Quinn Bloomquist, Hallie Williamson, and Jack Bloomquist. Her beloved siblings, brothers Allen, Cliff, and Maurice Bowman (Faye), sister Florence King carry forward her memory, along with a host of nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her very best friend, Carole Lamb and beloved self-adopted sons, John Wilkerson and Mark Spencer.

Opal's family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to hospice (Marie and Teisha) and caregivers (Betsy, Carol, Marcy, Beverly) who cared for her with compassion and dignity in her final days. In honoring Opal Garner, we remember a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire and nurture the generations that follow.

The family will receive friends Monday, June 29, 2026 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Pugh Funeral Home, 600 S. Main St. in Randleman. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Randolph Memorial Park with her very special pastor/friend Michael Fulp and pastor/friend Ray Luther officiating. 

Per Opal's request, in lieu of flowers please make a donation in her name to Cedar Square Friends Meeting, 7546 Harlow Road, Archdale, NC 27263; Victory Junction, 4500 Adam's Way, Randleman, NC 27317; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or Samaritan's Purse International, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.