Emanuel Francis Sowder

Emanuel Francis (Sy) Sowder, 84, passed away on Friday, April 8, 2011. Mr. Sowder was a life-long resident of the Roanoke Valley. He graduated from Andrew Lewis High School and Virginia Southern College, and served with the United States Navy during the end of World War II. He was employed for 30 years by Turner Brothers (Highway) Contractors, then worked for Bennett Construction Company and Salem Stone Corporation until his retirement in 2008. A devoted Christian, Mr. Sowder was a life-long member of Oak Grove Church of the Brethren. He spent much of his life compassionately helping others through his church, volunteerism and gifts. He was often recognized for his generous community service including a Distinguished Service Award from the Virginia Congress of Parents and Teachers. Mr. Sowder was predeceased by his parents, Claude E. and Essie A. Sowder; brother, Paul C. Sowder; and his precious wife of 55 years, Nancy M. Sowder. He is survived by a sister, Marcena P. Walker; two sons, Stephen L. and David L. Sowder; daughters-in-law, Diane J. Sowder and Pamela C. Sowder; grandchildren, David Adam Sowder, Stephanie K. Sowder and Kaye Lynn Sowder; nephew, Ronald Phennicie and his wife, Evelyn. The family would like to acknowledge the dedicated and skillful care by the RMH Neurological Unit, Raleigh Court Healthcare, Emeritus Roanoke, and especially the ladies with Sitter Solutions. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 10, 2011, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Oakey's South Chapel. A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 11, 2011, at 11 a.m. at the Oak Grove Church of the Brethren, 2138 McVitty Road, Roanoke. Pastor Ed Woodard will officiate. Interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Sowder suggested a gift to the Oak Grove Church of the Brethren.