Vincent "Benny" Rowe

Vincent Rowe was born unexpectedly while his mother (Mable O. Renfrow-Rowe) was visiting family in Philadelphia, PA on June 15, 1955. He grew up in Washington, DC. But later Vincent moved to Annapolis, MD with his father (Willie Rowe), and grandmother and grandfather (Beulah and Aware Turner), where he graduated from Annapolis High School.

Right before his 19th birthday, Vincent entered the United States Airforce. This would go on to shape his life as an adult. Vincent served as a Pararescueman, also known as a PJ, with the 48th Fighter Interceptor Squadron in the Vietnam War. PJs are highly skilled in executing the most hazardous, demanding, and extreme rescue missions, especially those requiring parachute operations. Their motto, "These Things We Do, That Others May Live," is a good example of Vincent’s dedication and self-sacrifice for his family and friends.

After leaving the military, Vincent worked in electronic assembly, where he met Noi. They fell in love almost instantly and were lifelong partners. They wed on September 25, 1981, going on to have two children, Cathy and Lyn. Vincent was a strong, kind, loving, and supportive husband and father. His knowledge and guidance are the foundation of his family.

Vincent loved being active, from biking with friends to paddle boating with his kids. He also had many hobbies, like photography, fishing, Ping-Pong, and anything related to the water. Vincent enjoyed learning and doing new things. He was a quiet and proud man with a wonderful personality and a heart of gold. Vincent touched the lives of many and always brought laughter to their hearts.

Vincent was preceded in death by parents, Willie Rowe and Mabel O. Renfrow-Rowe, paternal grandparents Beulah and Aware Turner, maternal grandparents, Plummer and Trecia Renfrow and Rosetta Jones, and sister, Gwendolyn Drake.

He is survived by many loving individuals, including his wife, Noi, two daughters, Cathy (Ryan) and Lyn (Nate), grandson, Kai, sister, Bernetta, brothers Kornegay (Brenda), Roby (Judy), Antwoine (Annette), and a host of relatives and friends.

Vincent will be dearly missed and always remembered. Since Vincent wishes to be cremated, the family will scatter his ashes at one of his favorite spots on a later date. Please join us in remembering the life of Vincent on Saturday, May 7th.