Rev. Bill Lowry

Lake Junaluska/Mississippi, Rev. William "Bill" Tew Lowry, 94, a devoted United Methodist Minister and dedicated member of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024, at his residence. He was born on June 4, 1930, in Meridian, Mississippi, and lived a life marked by faith, service, and community engagement.

Bill pursued an education that reflected his commitment to his ministry; he obtained his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University Southern Mississippi and went on to earn his Master's of Divinity at Emory University. His academic endeavors laid a strong foundation for a life dedicated to serving others through his faith.

Throughout his ministry, Bill was known for his compassionate approach and his ability to connect with his congregation. He not only influenced the spiritual lives of those around him but also left a lasting impact on the wider community. Beyond his professional commitments, he had various hobbies and interests that brought him joy. He enjoyed photography and was an enthusiastic volunteer with the Elk Bugle Corp in the Cataloochee Valley for over 13 years. In earlier years, Bill was an avid backpacker, often exploring the majestic mountains of Colorado and the Great Smoky Mountains. He also had a keen interest in researching the history of Lake Junaluska, showcasing his curiosity and love for the area in his book, the Antechamber of Heaven.

Rev. Lowry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Lowry, who passed away in 2017, as well as his parents, Emmett Ramsey Lowry and Pearl Tew Lowry, and his two sisters, Bobbye Lowry and Josephine Clements.

He is survived by his daughter, Cissy Lowry Vertrees (Steve), his son, Bill Lowry (Sherry Cate), six grandchildren: Lacey Carter (Norman), Kyle Lowry (Helen), Conner Lowry, Hunter Lowry (Kay), David Vertrees, and Rebekah Vertrees. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Destiny and Loryn Carter, Annaliese and Alden Lowry; along with a special niece, Carolyn Clements.

A memorial service honoring Rev. Bill Lowry's life and legacy will be held on November 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Waynesville, North Carolina with Reverends Keith Turman and Robert Blackburn officiating. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate his contributions to their lives and the community at large. Rev. Lowry's spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and those he served throughout his remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The National Park Services, Lake Junaluska Assembly, or FUMC of Waynesville. 

The care of Mr. Lowry has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville, NC