Samuel James "Jim" Rowan

Samuel James (Jim) Rowan, Ph.D., 83, of Athens, died Sunday, February 14, 2016 at his home after a long illness. He was born in Lakeland, GA on September 1, 1932 to the late Golie Thelma Watson and the late William Elisha Rowan. He graduated from Lanier Co. High School and earned an Associate's degree in Agriculture from Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from University of Georgia in 1953. While at UGA, he was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and met his future wife at a Valentine's dance on 2/13/53. After serving from 1953-1956 in the Quartermaster Corps in the U.S. Army, he returned to UGA and earned a Master of Science degree in 1958 and a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology in 1967. He worked as a plant pathologist for the U.S. Forestry Service and retired after 30 years.
Jim was a charter member of Oconee County Lions Club; an avid western square dancer and round dancer; a member of Georgia Square Mall Walkers; and has been a member of Watkinsville United Methodist Church for more than 30 years. He was devoted to growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in his garden and provided well for his family and friends.
He was predeceased by his sister Betty Rowan Devane and brother Herbert Rowan. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Anne Noell Rowan; two brothers: Van Rowan of Adel, GA and William Rowan of Nashville, GA; son Samuel James Rowan, Jr. (Susan Joy) of Bluffton, SC; two daughters: Judy Lynne Rowan Cox of Watkinsville and Noell Lee Rowan (Laura) of Carolina Beach, NC; four grandchildren: Chris Rowan (Kenya), Ben Rowan, Miriam Cox, Sarahgrace Cox and greatgrandchild Alex Rowan.
A memorial service will be held at Watkinsville First United Methodist Church on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at 1pm with The Reverend Dr. Teresa Angle-Young and The Reverend Kathleen Deegan-Neal officiating with a reception immediately following in Grace Hall. Private interment will precede the service with The Reverend Anjie Peek Woodworth and The Reverend Andy Woodworth officiating.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers donations can be made in Jim's honor to: Watkinsville First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 87 Watkinsville, Georgia 30677; St. Mary's Hospice Services P.O. Box 6588 Athens, GA. 30604; or the charity of your choice.
Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.
www.lordandstephens.com