Lowell Eugene Wise

Lowell Eugene Wise of Newland, North Carolina, rode into glory on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the age of 83. During his time on earth, he loved life and loved others, leaving many to honor his memory.

Lowell was born on October 21, 1942, to Otis and Ellen Ford Wise, the youngest of nine children. He quickly became much doted upon by all who lived on Little Cow Camp, most especially the ten other members of his household. Family members still recall his fun-loving spirit and days spent playing in the Rock House and tending to the family’s horses over the years. He was the best brother anyone could ever have.

His love for all living things was the compelling force throughout his life. He was a gifted gardener and caring shepherd to many loyal horses and dogs; he even plowed his garden with a horse each year. He loved all he met, greeting everyone, regardless of age or gender, as “Honey” or “Sugar.”

His gift for working with others carried over into his professional life. He was kind and reliable, ever a trustworthy employee and one that could be counted upon. He was a skilled craftsman and carpenter and was able to fix everything from a plumbing issue to an injured hoof to a scraped knee with gentle care. He was very proud of his service as a volunteer firefighter, helping his community in this capacity for 35 years.

Lowell was preceded in death by his beloved parents and siblings Ben, Tom, Milton “Skeeze,” Roberta, Earl “Dock,” and Gay. Left to share his legacy are his wife, Linda, his daughter Tonya Wise McKinney (husband Nicky), his son David Wise (wife Sara), grandchildren Courtney McKinney Hicks (husband Kenny), Shelby Gibbs, Dillon Wise, Emma Wise, Violet Wise, and Charlotte Wise, great-grandchildren McKenna Hicks, Ellie Hicks, and Breann Hicks, sisters Leota Wise Coffey and Phyllis Wise Blackburn, and many dear family members and friends.

Services will be held at Newland Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, with a visitation from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, with the service to follow at 1:00 pm with Pastor Kenny Hicks officiating. A family graveside service will follow at the Church of Jesus Christ Cemetery on White Pine Road in Newland. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fletcher Presbyterian Chapel, PO Box 493, Newland, North Carolina, 28657. 

Ashelawn Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements for the Wise family.