Charles Isaac Rowden (1934-2026)

It is with great sadness that the Rowden family announces the passing of Charles Isaac Rowden. He passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026. Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Bobbie Gaynell Rowden; his four children, Celese (Collier) Ward, Karen (Tim) Powers, Vance Rowden, and Amelia (Terry) Hice; his grandchildren, Judy, Chad, Pierce, Drue, Ross, Chandler, Madison, Scott, Chase, Hope, Hayden, and Bella; and his many great-grandchildren. Charles was born in Franklin County, Alabama, to Ellis Powell Rowden and Altie Vidella Wilson. He grew up alongside his siblings, Annette Bernauer and Paul Rowden. He attended Coffee High School in Florence, Alabama, before earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of North Alabama and his master’s degree in accounting from Alabama A&M University. Charles proudly served in the United States Air Force and later worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers until his retirement.

Charles met the love of his life, Bobbie Gaynell Rowden, on the library steps of the University of North Alabama. The two were married on December 19, 1959, and shared a beautiful life together for nearly 67 years. Charles was a devoted man of faith who dedicated many years to serving his church, Kairos Ministry, and several nonprofit organizations. Above all, his greatest joy was spending time with his family, whether it was cooking his famous Saturday morning breakfast, playing games around the round table, or simply sitting together on the porch. These cherished moments will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who loved him.

A funeral service will be held at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church on Friday, October 23, 2026. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Camp McDowell in Charles’s memory.

https://campmcdowell.org/give