WALTERBORO: Thomas Marion “Tommy” Rowe, Sr., 80, died Friday, May 17, 2024 at Roper Hospital. A life-long resident of Walterboro, Tommy was born August 28, 1943 in Charleston, SC, the second son of John McCuen Rowe and Jessie Hiott Rowe of Walterboro. Surviving are two sons, Thomas M. Rowe Jr. (wife Kristi Corbin Rowe) of Yonges Island and J. Christopher Rowe (wife Brandy Peurifoy Rowe) of Walterboro; a brother Kenwood “Kenny” Rowe of Walterboro; and four grandchildren: Meredith and Brantley of Yonges Island, and Huiet and Elliot “Eli” Rowe of Walterboro, and numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving is his former wife, Sylvia Rowland. He was preceded in death by a brother, Dr. John Roger Rowe of Mt. Pleasant. Tommy graduated from Walterboro High School in 1961 and from the University of South Carolina in 1967 with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduation he received a commission in the U.S. Navy where he served as a jet pilot and flight instructor. He was released from active duty service in 1971 and returned to Walterboro with his wife and sons. He began work in North Charleston with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command and later assisted with his father’s farming operation in Colleton County. He was co-owner of Brown Hardware and Furniture Company in Walterboro. In the 1980’s he founded The Rowe Company Real Estate firm, and in 1998 became manager of the Walterboro Airport, later known as the Lowcountry Regional Airport, a position he held for 25 years until his retirement in 2023. A member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Tommy was involved in many community activities, serving on numerous committees and boards. After retirement he spent time with his sons in the real estate firm and following around his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Papa Toad”. A visitation and celebration of Tommy’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 22nd at Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro at 5 p.m. On-line condolences may be sent to www.parkerrhodenfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
