Dr William (Bill) Blackstone Stowe, 81, passed away September 22, 2023 at Cleveland Memorial Hospital.

Born in Greenville SC, he was the son of the late Rev. Dr. Joe E. Stowe and Beverly Berry Stowe.

After graduating from South Mecklenburg High School he continued his formal education at St Andrews Presbyterian College, BA, Appalachian State University, MA, And eventually earning his Ph.D in Renaissance Literature from the University of South Carolina.

During his early career, he served as Camp Director for Camp Grier in Old Fort, NC. while teaching part time at Montreat Anderson College in Black Mountain, NC. Beginning in 1965 he taught in the English Department at Gardner Webb College until establishing the Communication Studies Department in 1981. He was advisor to the campus newspaper "The Pilot" and also the college yearbook "The Web". Involved as chairman or director of numerous campus programs, he was involved in Gardner Webb attaining University status.

After stepping down from a thirty year career at GW, he became a licensed building contractor and began building single family homes throughout Cleveland county including a small neighborhood development in Boiling Springs. Carpentry had always been a hobby as he and his wife Tollie had worked to help build their home in Polkville, NC in 1975.

Throughout the years, Bill was involved in various organizations which represented his efforts to contribute to the quality of life in Cleveland county and beyond. He participated as a board member with Greater Shelby Community Theater and even appeared in a few productions. He was part of the task force charged with the early development of the Cleveland County Arts Council and served as Communication Chairman for the local chapter of Friendship Force. As a long time member of Shelby Presbyterian Church, Bill occasionally led Sunday school classes, offering insight into Christianity and its representation in classical literature.

Bill is survived by his wife of 55 years, Tollie Moose Stowe, two sons: Marc W Stowe and Matthew T Stowe, and a granddaughter Caroline Stowe. He is also survived by his mother, Beverly Stowe; sister, Marie Stowe and brother Gene Stowe.

In remembrance a funeral service will be held in the Chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Drew Mangione officiating and long time friend Dr. Richard F. Wilson assisting. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to the Emergency Assistant Program at Shelby Presbyterian Church. 226 E Graham St., Shelby, NC 28150.

Condolence messages may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.