Ralph D. Lowtharpe was born in Statesville, NC on November 4, 1930 to the late James (Bill) Lowtharpe and late Nonnie S. Lowtharpe. After a long battle with Parkinson Disease, Ralph, surrounded by his family, passed away at the age of 88 on September 8, 2019 in Fulshear, TX at the home of his daughter, Teresa Jones.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, a baby sister, in-laws Mr. & Mrs. J.P. Treadway, and a sister-in-law, Ann Lowtharpe.
Ralph attended school at Cool Springs and graduated from High School at Burton Institute in Charlotte, NC. He served two years in active duty in the U.S. Army. In 1957, Ralph started a 26-year career with Harris Teeter Supermarkets, serving as manager for 20 of those years. Ralph also worked 3 years for Market Basket Supermarkets. Later, Ralph was a co-founder of the local Antique & Pawn located on Main Street in Taylorsville and owned a local mini-storage business. Ralph also was a member of the Alexander County Chamber of Commerce.
Ralph was a member of the Liledoun Road Church of Christ, where he served as the church treasurer for over 40 years and as a church Elder.
Ralph is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 65 years, Madge T. Lowtharpe; two daughters, Teresa Jones (David Jones), Debra Markwell; two grandchildren, Zachary Jones (Lori Jones), Samantha Kuehn (Ashley Kuehn); and three great-grandchildren; one brother Charlie Lowtharpe, nephew Lyn Lowtharpe and niece Donna Hall.
A visitation with the family will be held Friday, September 13, 2019 from 6 PM to 7:30 PM at Alexander Funeral Service in Taylorsville, NC. A graveside ceremony will be conducted on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 11 AM at Abilene Church of Christ in Statesville, NC, with Herman Doss presiding.
Military rites will be afforded by the Army National Guard.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.
Condolences may be sent to
www.alexfuneralservice.com