John Reese Rowe

John Reese Rowe Jr., 94, of Grottoes, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at his home. Born in NY on September 19, 1929, he was the older of two sons of Georgiana (Hildebrand) and John Rowe Sr. He grew up in NY until the family moved to the Philippines in 1946 - an adventure for young John that he spoke of often.

Returning to NY he met Kathryn Lucille Maher of Brooklyn in 1949 through a friend at work who happened to be married to her older sister. They married on January 17, 1953 and were devoted to each other for over 70 years. John and Lucille first lived in Brooklyn where they welcomed daughters Genevieve and Deborah. John's work took the family to VA from 1964 to 1968. After completing his career in NY, John and Lucille returned to the Shenandoah Valley they loved. Their life in Grottoes has been blessed with wonderful memories and very, very special friends.

John was interested in many things and was always busy - working on the house or car, refurbishing furniture, making jewelry, studying military history, birdwatching, collecting railroad antiques, and rebuilding pocketwatches - he was never idle but he was never too busy to help a friend. He was an avid reader and appreciated music of any genre. John had a razor-sharp wit and frequently had the whole room in stitches with his unique brand of humor.He and Lucille enjoyed exploring the country by car picnicking along the way.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Lucille; his daughters Genevieve (Duane Beekly) and Deborah Parrella (Michael); grandchildren Bethany Beekly, Lorie Parrella Ebigbo (Ikenna), Danny Parrella, and Jean Parrella; great granddaughter Chetachi Ebigbo; and brother Charlie.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service Chapel in Grottoes.

Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Grottoes is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.johnsonfs.com.