Bill was a true patriot who deeply loved his country. At just 17 years old, he willingly enlisted to serve in the Vietnam War. He was a devoted family man who loved his family dearly. He also enjoyed fishing, cooking, and telling stories that could make anyone laugh.
Bill retired from Exxon Refinery after 37 years of dedicated service. Throughout his life, he was known for his loyalty, his sense of humor, his generous spirit, and, most of all, his love for his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, W.H. and Dorothy “Dot” Rowell; his maternal grandparents, Lois and Norris Brown; and his paternal grandparents.
Bill is survived by his son and best friend, Patrick Rowell. He is also survived by Shelley Smith Caballero and her husband, Kerry Caballero.
He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: William “Will” Rowell, Ariel Rowell, Dr. Corynne Caballero, Dr. Cassidy Caballero, and Luke Caballero.
Bill also leaves behind his brother, Dave Rowell (Jerrine); two nieces, Jancie Rowell Corie and Mika Rowell LaBorde (Mike); and two nephews, Jarred and Austin Theriot.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses of the OLOL Telemetry Unit, as well as the compassionate staff at Clarity Hospice, for the care and kindness they provided to Bill and his family.
Visitation and Service
Visitation will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815, on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was a charity Bill faithfully supported.
