Rebecca Hooks Rowell

Rebecca graduated from Sun Valley High School, Class of 1964. A lifelong member of Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, she served faithfully as a Sunday School teacher and co-leader of the “Goodtimers Group,” offering her time and care with the quiet consistency that so often sustains a congregation. She was also involved with the National Association of Business Women and was a former member of Altrusa International.

For 42 years, Rebecca served at First Citizens Bank, where she was well loved by customers and respected for the dependable presence she brought to her work each day. Her commitment and professionalism left a lasting impression on those she helped and worked alongside, and she is fondly remembered by her family and the wider community.

Outside of work and church, Rebecca found joy in toll painting, traveling, and serving as a guide for bus tours—sharing places and experiences with others in a way that reflected her welcoming spirit. She was also a lifelong Tarheels fan, a loyalty she carried with pride and enthusiasm.

Rebecca is survived by her children, Melanie R. Bowser (John) and Marshall E. Rowell; her grandchildren, Celeste B. Smith (Devin) and Josh Bowser, who both knew her as “Mimi”; and her brother, Mitchell Hooks. She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, George Rowell, and her parents, Marshall and Betty Hooks.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.