Zoe Myers Rowell, 86, passed away peacefully March 22, 2026, in Radford. Zoe began her life in McMinnville, Tennessee, growing up on her family’s farm with her sister Jan and her brother Andy nestled in the mountains of Myers Cove.
After graduating from Vanderbilt University in 1961, she moved to Atlanta to work at a pulmonary research lab at Emory University. Through friends in Atlanta, she met her husband John (Jack) Rowell, whom she married in 1962.
Zoe and Jack lived a life full of adventure and unique experiences, including raising their two sons John and Mark. No matter where she found herself (Colorado, Panama, Virginia and a list of global destinations too long to list), she and Jack found ways to make new friends, explore new places, and remain curious and compassionate about the world.
As a math teacher for over 25 years in Panama and Virginia, Zoe touched the lives of many with her sweet disposition, caring attention, and strong dedication to her students. In her later years, she could be found caring for her beautiful garden, playing bridge, walking in the woods, and cultivating a rich set of friendships at her home in Fairlawn.
She is survived by her husband Jack, her sons John and Mark, and three grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Zoe’s life on May 30, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Mullins Funeral Home in Radford, preceded by an informal gathering at 1 p.m. to meet and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Zoe’s memory to the Celiac Disease Foundation.
The Rowell family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
