Charlene Franklin Dabbs,

Charlene Franklin Bowman Dabbs, 75 of Bethlehem, went home to be with her Lord & Savior on May 10, 2011 at FryeRegionalMedicalCenter, Hickory, after a courageous, lengthy battle with cancer and chronic illness.  She was born January 29, 1936 to the late Teddy Roosevelt Franklin & Marie Ervin McGee in Jonas Ridge, NC.  She was a member of GraceBaptistChurch.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands’ Ray E. Walker, Max M. Bowman, Olan T. Dabbs and special friend Jimmy Teague and also 3 brothers: Rodney Franklin, Hobert Franklin, & Homer Franklin. Survivors include 3 sons: Gary Walker of Key West, FL; Eric Bowman of Hollywood, FL; and Roger Bowman and wife Charmaine of Bethlehem, NC.  2 daughters:  Sharon W. Tallent and husband, Charles of Bethlehem, NC; Annette B. Hefner and husband Danny of Smyrna, TN.  Grandchildren would include Johnny Driver, Micheal Driver and wife Elizabeth, Annette Flowers and husband Matt of Hickory, NC.  Derek B. Hefner, Dean R. Neely, Jr., Heather Neely,  Brittney Roland and Sierra Hefner of Smyrna, TN, Garrett M. Bowman and Jacob R. Bowman of Bethlehem, NC.  Great-grandchildren are Faith Flowers, Andrea, Hope, and Haven Driver, Mylee, and Jordan Mahon.  She also has 3 brothers and 4 sisters: Sidney Franklin & wife Dianne, Jerry Franklin, Danny Franklin & wife Pat, Garcella Hastings, Della Morgan, Lannie Pennell & husband Frank, and Joyce Taylor & husband Jim; as well as a number of nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Friday, May 13 at GraceBaptistChurchin Bethlehemfrom 6:30--8:30 pm.  Funeral Services will be Saturday, May 14 at 1:00 pm at GraceBaptistChurchwith the Dr. Marcus R. Benfield officiating.   She will lie-in-state 30 minutes prior to the Funeral hour. Burial will follow at the WoodlawmMemorialGardensin Hickory.  Her Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to the Grace Baptist Church Building Fund, 627 Rink Dam Rd, Bethlehem, N.C. 28681, and/or the American Cancer Society @ 6000 Fairview Road.  #200. Charlotte, NC28210.  Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service are handling arrangements.