Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Raymond Dale Fowler passed away on March 13, 2026, at Lake Prince Woods, surrounded by his wife, Janie.
Early Life and Education
Born February 4, 1944, on a dairy farm in Valliant, Oklahoma, to Clarence and Purlor Fowler, Dale Fowler graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1966. He excelled in pilot training, topping his class.
Distinguished Military Career
Fowler flew two Vietnam War tours, completing combat missions from Bien Hoa in the F-100 and Udorn, Thailand, in the F-4. He logged 427 combat missions over his 28-year Air Force tenure.
His achievements include the 1978 Koren Kolligian Trophy for exceptional airmanship and the 1984 Hughes Trophy. He also served as Deputy Commander for Maintenance.
Aviation Passion and Retirement
Post-active duty, Fowler owned and piloted aircraft like the Bushby Mustang II and GlaStar. He and Janie flew from Virginia to California twice, sharing Young Eagles flights with grandchildren.
Retiring in 1994, the couple settled in Smithfield, Virginia, on nine acres. Fowler revived his farming heritage with an orchard of over 20 fruit trees, a large vegetable garden—including peanuts—and launched “Have Tractor Will Travel” to assist neighbors.
Hobbies, Travel, and Faith
A skilled woodworker, Fowler built furniture and pedal planes. The couple explored widely, enjoying European cruises to Russia and Germany’s Moselle River.
A devoted Church of Christ member for over 70 years, he served the Smithfield congregation for 25 years, occasionally attending in Suffolk. He held roles like treasurer and teacher, earning deep respect.
Survivors and Funeral Details
Fowler is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Janie; daughters Stephanie (Symon) and Kimberly (Kelly); grandchildren Caleb, Graceson (Josh), Morgan, and Olivia; great-grandson Noah; brother Wade (Erma); and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded by parents Clarence and Purlor; brother Wayne; and sisters Mae and Lorene.
A funeral service schedules for Friday, April 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Church of Christ, 204 S. Church St., Smithfield, VA, followed by committal at 3:00 p.m. at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.
