Donald Edward Lowe

SFC Donald “Don” Edward Lowe, age 89, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, after a week of failing health.

Don was born in Burlington, North Carolina, on July 30, 1937, to the late Jay Dee Lowe and Elsie May Ruth Foushee. He was married to his beloved wife, Carolyn “Callie” Sue Glover Morton Lowe, for 24 years, before her passing in 2016, and was of the Baptist faith.

If you ever had the pleasure of talking with Don, you quickly learned that he was a devoted fan of the Duke Blue Devils and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He could tell you the score of any game they played—and, of course, whether they had won or lost.

Don was a lifetime member of American Legion post 81 in Liberty, NC since May 20, 2019. and a proud United States Army veteran who dedicated 22 years of his life to serving his country. He was a soldier at heart and deeply proud of his military service. Don loved sharing stories about his years in the Army and his time stationed in Germany, including the unforgettable tale of rolling his military jeep and being airlifted to the hospital. His military career spanned both the Korean and Vietnam eras. Don was immensely proud to have served his country and would have answered the call again without hesitation had his country needed him.

During his younger years, Don was active throughout the Burlington community and participated in numerous tournaments. He enjoyed bowling and came close to bowling a perfect game. He also enjoyed softball, shuffleboard, and pool. Don was an active member of the Burlington Moose Lodge, where he held several officer positions. He also proudly served as Scoutmaster for Troop No. 649.

Don worked as an order expediter at Kayser-Roth before retiring from General Shale Brick Company in Burlington. Retirement did not slow him down. He continued to stay active by working part-time for the City of Burlington as a marina attendant at Guilford-Mackintosh Park & Marina.

Don was also a cancer survivor. He often credited Dr. William Vault and Dr. Chapman “Chap” McQueen of Alamance Ear, Nose, and Throat with saving his life after they diagnosed him with a rare, rapidly growing cancerous tumor in a salivary gland.

On June 12, 1998—the very same day his only granddaughter was born—Don underwent cancer surgery and began his first of many chemotherapy and radiation treatments while still in the hospital. Through the difficult days that followed, Don’s strength, determination, and incredible will to live carried him through. He fought hard, and he never gave up.

Mr. Lowe is survived by his daughter, Angela Lowe Abbott and husband Brian Sr. of Mebane, his granddaughter Alisha Abbott and her fiancé Kyle of Mebane.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn; his two daughters, Sylvia Louise Lowe and Rebecca Christine Lowe; his parents, Jay Dee Lowe and Elsie May Ruth Foushee; his brother, Jay Dee Lowe, Jr.; and his sister, Elsie Jeanette Lowe.

Throughout his life, Don carried the memories of those he loved deeply. In death, he hoped to be reunited with his beloved wife, Carolyn, and their sweet dog, Callie.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the Emergency Room, ICU, Caseworkers, and Second Floor Cardiac staff at Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center, as well as the Hospice team, for the exceptional and compassionate care they provided to Don.

The family would also like to express heartfelt appreciation to Pastor Sam for the beautiful and moving eulogy delivered during Don’s service, and to Mr. and Mrs. Scott for their help throughout the years.

Don lived a life defined by service, perseverance, loyalty, and an unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, strength, and cherished memories that will live in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A service to celebrate Don’s life was held at 11:00am on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel by Chaplain Sam Garris and the interment followed at Alamance Memorial Park with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to AuthoraCare Hospice of Alamance County, 914 Chapel Hill Rd., Burlington, NC 27215.

Rest peacefully, Dad. Your service is complete. You have earned your wings.