Cornelius Crowe

On November 25, 2025 at 7:32pm, Cornelius Crowe passed away after an extended illness. He gained his wings and joined his Heavenly Father, departing this earthly world at the age of 89. Born to the late Dolson Crowe and Cora Buckner Crowe on March 23, 1936 and raised in Madison County, North Carolina, he moved to Morganton during his teenage years.

One of his earlier jobs was working at Breeden’s Poultry where he met his soon-to-be wife and the love of his life, Rae. From there, he worked various jobs but found working with furniture to be his passion. Until his retirement he worked at Drexel Heritage in the finishing department where he served as foreman and part-time at E. J. Victor post-retirement.

He was an active member in church serving on the Board of Deacons, performing in religious plays, and singing in the choir while attending Hartland Missionary Methodist Church. He later joined Poarch Chapel Missionary Methodist Church where he supported fundraisers, competed in horseshoe tournaments, and other church activities.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed fishing whether it be on the coast or in the local river. He loved to catch spots, brim, crappie, and snapper. His hobbies included gardening with his most proud vegetable being his six-foot tall okra that he grew one year, and raising chickens that produced four yolk eggs. Another passion was travelling to new places and experiencing different cultures. He and his wife sailed around the Caribbean, Central America, Bermuda, and Canada on 13 cruises. Additionally, they travelled to all 50 states during their 67-year marriage.

He was a devoted, compassionate husband and father who adored his wife and daughter. He was always a source of strength and encouragement during difficult times. He was admired for his laughter and comedic candor. Until the bitter end, he always talked about his love for his family and his rock and stone, his wife.

Cornelius is survived by his daughter, Michelle Howell and husband Brian; grandchildren Parker and Brielle; brother, Boyce Crowe and wife Kathy, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, close friends, and extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Noah Crowe, Charles Crowe, James Crowe, Edward Crowe, and sister, Evelyn Suttles.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home in Morganton and a celebration of Cornelius’ life will follow at 3 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.