Rock Hill, SC – Eileen Joan Burdick Rowe, a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed to be with her Lord December 26, 2023, at the age of 97 in Rock Hill, SC.
Eileen was born November 26th, 1926, in Cincinnati, OH, to the late Bernard and Florence Burdick. She married Gilbert Rowe in 1951 and following his service in the Korean War settled in Knoxville, TN, where she lived for fifty years and raised her three children. She retired at age seventy-two from a career as a bookkeeper.
Happiest when surrounded by family and friends, Eileen enjoyed family picnics in the Smoky Mountains and holiday meals. She had the gift of hospitality. For her hospitality, Eileen received from the Chamber of Commerce the Spirit of Knoxville Award following the 1982 World’s Fair. She enjoyed playing bridge with friends and engaging in hobbies such as quilting, ceramics, and crafting. In 2009, she moved to Rock Hill, SC, to be closer to family.
A faithful Christian from childhood until her passing, Eileen was a former member of Arlington Baptist Church and later became a member of Oakwood Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN. Among her favorite gifts to family, friends, and caregivers was a framed picture of Jesus knocking at the door, accompanied by the Bible verse from Revelation 3:20: ‘Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if anyone hears my voice, and opens the door, I will come into him, and will sup with him, and he with me.’ This was one way she shared her faith.
Eileen is preceded in death by her father, mother, two sisters, the father of her children, and many dear friends and relatives. Eileen is survived by daughters, Karen R. Johnston and husband, Dr. James W. Johnston of Rock Hill, SC; Peggy R. Shoemaker and husband, Dr. David W. Shoemaker of St. Marys, GA; son, Kenneth D. Rowe and wife, Brenda C. Rowe of Greenville, SC; three grandchildren, Laura A. Shoemaker, Nicholas D. Rowe, and Nathan T. Rowe; great grandson, Logan A. Shoemaker; and extended family and friends.
In keeping with her wishes, a private memorial service and interment will be held for immediate family. Those wishing to honor her life may donate to a charity of their choice.
The family would like to thank the staff at Magnolia Manor and Gentiva Hospice of Rock Hill, SC, for the care, concern, and comfort provided.
Loving, Kind, Godly, Generous, Hardworking
Condolences may be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net.