Johnny Ray Dowda, age 71, of Epworth, GA, passed away on April 29, 2019 at his home. He was born in Valdosta, GA to the late Billy Gilland and Thomy Lee Clay Dowda. They shortly thereafter moved to Florida where he lived the majority of his life. A hard worker and creative entrepreneur from an early age, he helped his family pick up "fallen" oranges from the grove they lived next to, selling them out of the back of their truck, followed by creosote and holly in season. He left High School early to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War in the 1st and 7th Cavalry Regiments. He raised a family and loved being able to support them with his work in warehouse management. Eventually injuries sustained during his Vietnam service forced him into early retirement, yet he made the most of these days spending hours riding his bike along the beach and maintaining his yard and vehicles. Johnny Ray was uncompromising in his principles, unflinching in his loyalty to friends and brothers-in-arms, and always ready with his blue eyes twinkling to laugh.Survivors include his loving wife, Diane Dowda; children, Johnny Jay Dowda, Tera (Gabriel) Dowda, Jason Dowda, Patrick Dowda and Michael Dowda; step-children, Sue-Lynn (Nathan Wildauer) Chu and Peter C. Chu; brothers and sisters-in-law, Danny Lee and Linda Dowda and Billy Gilland and Shirley Dowda; sisters and brother-in-law, Phyllis Tate and Wanda Sue and Jerry Farmer; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, and his sisters Patsy and Darlene. Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, May 6, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins Funeral Home Chapel with Father John Conway officiating. Full Military Honors will be provided by the North Georgia Honor Guard. Mr. Dowda's wishes were to be cremated following the service. There will be a Celebration of Life and Commitment to the Ocean on Friday, May 31, 2019 on the Florida Atlantic Coast. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Mr. Dowda, to a charity of your choice that benefits Vietnam Veterans. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge, GA, is in charge of the arrangements. . Visitation Akins Funeral Home - Blue Ridge Monday, May 06, 2019 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM 7871 Blue Ridge DriveBlue Ridge, Georgia 30513 Directions Funeral Service Akins Funeral Home - Blue Ridge Monday, May 06, 2019 2:00 PM 7871 Blue Ridge DriveBlue Ridge, Georgia 30513 Directions