Alton Gwynn "Schooner" Nowell, Jr.

Born on August 10, 1945, Schooner lived a vibrant life filled with family, community service, and a passion for adventure.

Schooner was the son of the late Alton Gwynn Nowell and Peggy Lou Futrelle Nowell. He attended Virginia Episcopal School for high school and received a degree in business from the University of North Carolina. During his time at UNC, he was an active member of the Zeta Psi fraternity and the Order of Gorgon’s Head. A lifelong Tarheel fan, win or lose he enjoyed watching every game with friends and family.

Professionally, Schooner was a proud member of the family-owned business, Nowell’s Clothing, where he built a legacy of quality, style and a flair for color. He also served honorably in the North Carolina National Guard for six years. His commitment to community extended to his role as a board member at Virginia Episcopal School, as well as serving as president and ball chairman of the Terpsichorean Club. He was also a dedicated member of the Carolina Country Club and the Sphinx Club.

Schooner cherished his time living and skiing in Sun Valley, Idaho. When not in the mountains, Schooner loved the beach, competing in Billfish tournaments as a young man and later living in Beaufort, North Carolina. When on a boat, he enjoyed nothing more than a trip to Cape Lookout. An avid golfer, he was a fixture on the driving range at Carolina Country Club in Raleigh and the Morehead City Country Club.

When describing Schooner Nowell, cliches are no longer cliches. He WAS the life of the party. He never met a stranger, had a heart of gold, was ONE OF A KIND and a true original. He is remembered for his warm spirit, love of life, gift of storytelling and devotion to those around him. One of his favorite times each year was his joint Birthday celebration with his lifelong best friend Erskine Bowles and the Bowles grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his former wife and the mother of his children, Karen Suberman.

Schooner is survived by his loving partner of 18 years, Susan Harris; his former wife, Julie Daniels; his children, Karen Nowell, Gwynn Nowell (wife, Bee) and their child Gwynn, and Lauren Nowell; his brother, Matt Hooper Nowell (wife, Harriet); his sister, LuBet Nowell; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

The family also wants to thank his incredible caregivers, Enock Nyasimi and Irene Ukiru, whom he adored.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Virginia Episcopal School, the Beaufort Historical Association or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life and reception will be held at the Carolina Country Club on Saturday, January 10th, 2026, at 3:00 pm.

Arrangements are made by Brown Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh.