Obituary of Harold Leon Lowder

Harold Leon Lowder, 4-25-1932 - 3/16/2024

“There is no place like home” and Harold Leon Lowder had a joyous, heavenly homecoming on March 16, 2024.

Born the son of a Baptist Minister in Sumter, SC on April 25, 1932, Harold was born into a family that has a deep faith and commitment to service, duty, and love-a commitment he carried with him throughout his life and leaves as a the legacy in his children. Of his 91 years on this earth he spent 67 of those with his sweetheart, Rhea Lowder, who preceded him in death last year and surely met him at the pearly gates of heaven this week, ready to welcome him home like she had so many times before.

Harold began his adult life by answering the call of service and duty he had been born into. After graduating from North Charleston High School he went on to attend Furman University where he became an ROTC cadet, eventually earning a BA in Psychology. Upon graduation he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and went on to serve in the army as a captain. Ever diligent to look for the needs of others, just because he was returning to civilian life did not mean his life of service would end, and he went on to hold various roles in the U.S. Postal Service, eventually retiring after 33 years. But, work was just one avenue he could serve those around him and, after retiring, he went on to use his time to volunteer at Trident Hospital for 9 years-always quick to offer a hand or loving support.

If service was the marker of his life, home was the anchor that refueled that service. But, as anyone can attest, home isn’t just a house but the family that fills it. And, Harold’s home was definitely full with children, grandchildren and, eventually, even great grandchildren. Spending special moments with those he loved was his greatest joy whether it was at the lake, out yard-selling, hosting a cookout, or a quiet day fishing. Those quiet, loud, and everything in between moments filled his life and the life of his family with an enduring love that passes beyond his time on this earth.

As Harold passes into eternity with His Savior, Jesus Christ, and his lovely wife, he leaves behind 3 children Steve (Marie), Kim Anderson (Andy), and Kristie Murphy. His legacy of service and love is also carried on by ten grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

The final years of one's life can be tender and sometimes complex.There are special and wonderful people on this earth who help guide us through these moments and Harold’s family found those special people in the form of the Villages and Gentiva Hospice. The wonderful, compassionate, and thoughtful care they extended to dad and his family will always hold a special place in their hearts and be remembered for lifetimes.

A celebration of life will be held at The Villages (formerly the Presbyterian home) Chapel on Friday, March 22, 2024 at 10:00 am.

Memorials may be made to the Villages of Summerville or Gentiva Hospice.

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