Anne Noell Rowan

Anne Noell Rowan, 89, of Athens, died peacefully in her sleep August 27, 2022 at her home after a long illness. She was born in Comer, Georgia on August 15, 1933 to the late Ann Jeannette Comer Noell and the late Willis Newton Noell. She graduated as Valedictorian from White County High School, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Georgia as well as a Master of Science degree in Medical Technology from Emory University. While at UGA she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority where she met her future husband at a Valentine’s dance on 2/13/1953. Anne worked as a lab technician at the UGA Veterinary School, taught Zoology at Wesley College, as well as many years as a Medical Lab Technologist and Chemistry Supervisor at St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens prior to her well-earned retirement.

Although Anne was active in many activities throughout her life, her first love by far was her family. They were always hesitant to ask her what she wanted for her birthday or Christmas as she would always respond with, "I just want a large, loving gathering of our family (usually between 12 to 15 people around the table)!” She was a very active member of Watkinsville First United Methodist Church for over 30 years. Not only was she involved with a number of committees at her church, but she also faithfully taught Sunday School lessons to the Progressive Adult Sunday School Class for many years. In addition, she was an active member of United Methodist Women’s Athens Elberton Georgia District (and she also served many offices including president of this group). Anne and Jim were avid square, round, and clogging dancers in the North East Georgia Federation for many years. She was involved as a leader of a Girl Scout troop and served the North East Georgia Girl Scout Council for many years. After years of exciting camping trips across the country, Anne and Jim realized their true “dream destination” was the mountains of North Georgia. Therefore, they purchased and thoroughly enjoyed their wonderful Hiawassee, GA cabin as a couple as well as numerous family gatherings.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 61 years, Samuel James (Jim) Rowan, Sr. and grandson, Benjamin James Rowan. She is survived by her sister Lynn Peek of Avondale Estates, GA; son Samuel James Rowan, Jr. (Susan Joy) of Bluffton, SC; two daughters: Judy Rowan Westbrook (Michael) of Watkinsville and Noell Lee Rowan (Laura) of Carolina Beach, NC; three grandchildren: Chris Rowan (Kenya), Miriam Cox, Sarahgrace Cox (Dustin) and great-grandchild Alex Rowan.

A memorial service will be held at Watkinsville First United Methodist Church on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at 2:00 pm with The Reverend Dr. Robert Bruce and Reverend Anjie Peek Woodworth officiating with a reception immediately following in Grace Hall. Private interment will precede the service with The Reverend Anjie Peek Woodworth officiating.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Anne's honor to: Watkinsville First United Methodist Church, 1331 New High Shoals Rd., Watkinsville, Georgia 30677; Christopher’s Bridge Home Care, 3651 Mars Hill Road, Suite 1600, Watkinsville, Georgia 30677; St. Mary’s Hospice Services, P.O. Box 6588 Athens, Georgia 30604 or the charity of your choice.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com