Deborah Eileen Rowe

Deborah Eileen Rowe, 62, of West Columbia, SC, passed away unexpectedly on September 20th, 2026, while recovering from surgery.

Born on September 27th, 1963, in Columbia, SC, Deborah was the beloved daughter of Edward and Anita Owens. Debi spent her life devoted to her family and children. She touched countless lives through teaching and coaching soccer.

Deborah graduated from Richland Northeast High School and attended the University of South Carolina. While working as a bank teller, she met her future husband, Dennis Rowe. They were married for 34 years. Debi went on to work with Lexington One School District for over 10 years, where she was a favorite of all the children who attended. Debi loved cheering on her children - you could always find her at one of her children’s sporting events on the weekends. Her other passions were cooking, boating, tennis, bowling and softball. Debi loved to cook authentic Italian meals – carrying on the family tradition. She loved animals of all kinds, especially her dog, Bear. Debi was a die-hard Gamecock fan, spending many weekends tailgating with family and friends. She also loved spending time at the beach – usually listening to Jimmy Buffett and Kenny Chesney – and winning the local shag contest! Those who knew Debi will remember her incredible laugh and ability to bring life to any party or occasion.

Above all else, Debi cherished time spent with family and friends. She was a loving mother, wife, sibling and friend whose love, guidance, and kindness will be deeply missed.

Deborah is survived by her husband, Dennis; her children Ryan, John (Hannah), Dennis (Paige); her siblings, Kathy Botwin, Anne Culler, Edward Owens (Lilli), Susan Bradley (Thom), Jeannie Piehl (Fred), Linda Leonardi (Dan); brother-in-law Gary Rowe and sister-in-law Kathy Ward, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, step-father Richard Orf, brother-in-laws Barry Culler and Roger Botwin, mother-in-law Vivian Rowe and father-in-law John Rowe.

Services will begin at 11:30AM on October 2nd, 2026, at McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 200 State St. West Columbia, SC 29169 with burial to follow at St Peter’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to PETSinc in Deborah’s memory. 

https://petsinc.org/donate/ P.O. Box 6394, West Columbia, SC 29169

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to friends and extended family for their care, compassion, and support.

Debi’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.