Grace Ellen Rowley, of Chapin and formerly of Pensacola, FL died Thursday, March 28, 2024. Her husband of 62+ years, Kenneth Irwin Rowley, preceded her in death on August 21, 2021.

Born on November 11, 1941 in Cottondale, FL, Grace was a daughter of Lucille Corbin Davis. Kenneth, born and raised in Council Grove, KS, joined the United States Navy and while stationed in Jacksonville, FL he met Grace. The two married and built an exciting life together - traveling the world, raising a family, and leaving a lasting impact on those that knew them.

Throughout his career in the U.S. Navy, they were stationed all over the world including various places in the United States, Guam, and Sicily. Regardless of where they were, Ken and Grace worked hard to make a home for their children, Michael, Matthew, Sabrina, and Joshua.

Ken, who was a Korean and Vietnam War Veteran, retired as Master Chief after a 26 ½ year career in the Navy. He enjoyed fishing, camping, racing motorcycles, and bourbon. He was a hard worker, often having a second job for his 'off duty days.' He earned his pilots license and became a pilot instructor helping others achieve their goals. After he and Grace retired to Pensacola, FL, he began instructing at Pensacola Junior College, Air and Propulsion School. Ken taught others how to rebuild and refinish historic aircraft, many of which are still on display today at the Pensacola Air Museum.

Grace also had a strong work ethic, working various jobs depending on where they were stationed, as well as working as a seamstress for Vanity Fair for over a decade. She had a feisty spirit, loved reading, cooking, flowers, and enjoying the nature that surrounded her. Her favorite hobbies were watching General Hospital, eating sweets she was not supposed to have, and going out to eat with her family.

They are survived by their sons, Michael Rowley and his wife Charlotte of Chapin, SC and Matthew Rowley of Boise, ID. In addition to Ken, Grace was preceded in death by her children, Sabrina and Joshua Rowley.

Services will be held at 12:00 PM, Thursday, April 25, 2024 at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, for both Ken and Grace.

Memories and messages can be shared with the family here on their tribute page.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rowley family.