David Tayloe Fowle

1932 - 2019

David Tayloe Fowle obituary, 1932-2019, Washington, NC

David Tayloe Fowle

1932 - 2019

David Fowle Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jun. 18, 2019.

David “Pappy” Tayloe Fowle of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at the age of eighty-six at Transitions LifeCare in Raleigh on Sunday morning, June 9, 2019. David was born on October 23, 1932 in Washington, North Carolina to Elizabeth Tayloe Fowle and Samuel Richardson Fowle, Jr.


He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Carter Fowle, their daughter Margaret Fowle and her partner Scott Boulette; their son David Fowle, Jr. and his wife Elizabeth Fowle; and his granddaughters, Catherine and Caroline Fowle. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Sadie Francis Fowle; sister-in-law Isabel Worthy and brother-in-law Ford Worthy. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his brother, Samuel Richardson “Bud” Fowle III, and his sister, Elizabeth “Tay” Carter and brother-in-law Samuel Timothy Nicholson Carter.


David proudly graduated from Davidson College where he played on the basketball team. After graduation, he joined the army where he served for two years. Also, during that time, he began courting the love of his life, Peggy Carter. They shared almost 62 years together in love and partnership. David was the principal of Washington High School in the 1960s before moving to Raleigh in 1971.  He earned his masters degree from East Carolina University, his Ed.D. from Duke University, and was the principal of Daniels Middle School for ten years before finishing his career at E.C. Brooks Elementary. The impact of his school career continued long past his retirement, as he helped shape the lives of thousands of children and enjoyed frequent visits from former students and teachers over the years. David had an unmatched work ethic that he applied to both academics and athletics. He completed the Boston Marathon twice and competed in his last triathlon at age 80. He is remembered for his kindness towards all living things--from rescuing puppies as a boy to feeding animals in his backyard in his later years--but is remembered most of all, for his love and dedication to his family.


A graveside service will be held at Oakdale Cemetery in Washington, NC on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.


In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Transitions LifeCare at 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607 or transitionslifecare.org.


Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com


Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Fowle family.

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December 7, 2020

Denise Spaugh posted to the memorial.

June 27, 2019

Kay (Potts) Andrew posted to the memorial.

June 21, 2019

Phyllis Encinias posted to the memorial.

Denise Spaugh

December 7, 2020

My belated condolences to the family of David Fowle. I spoke with a former teacher assistant at the school yesterday and she informed me of his passing. I was a teacher Brooks when he served as a principal. I recall him fondly as a sensitive man who had empathy for all students and staff. When I think of him, I will always remember his character.

Kay (Potts) Andrew

June 27, 2019

Pappy was my 7th grade teacher at WHS. He was so loved and respected, and all the girls thought he was beautiful. My cousin has already posted as to how she, Suzanne and I tested his patience. (Suzanne and Mary Ann WERE bad!) Our memories of him are still vivid, precious and much enjoyed even after all these years. I send my love and sympathy to his family. A life well-lived!

Phyllis Encinias

June 21, 2019

Dear Peggy, I am so sorry to hear of Pappy's death. Trough our school days and afterwards I think of him with fond regards. My thoughts are with you and your family. Sincerely, Phyllis Alligood Encinias

Harris Welles

June 20, 2019

Dr. Fowle was a special soul. I appreciated him as my principal at Daniels in the 70s, and then became friends in 1996 when I returned to Raleigh. I got to know him through morning swims at Optimist Pool, and he got me into triathlons. He was an intelligent, caring, thoughtful gentleman with a zest for life and a notable sense of humor. Hell be greatly missed by the folks who were fortunate enough to be his friend.

Mary ann Potts

June 20, 2019

"Pappy" was our 7th grade teacher @ WHS and what a memorable year that was! It was his first teaching job and with the likes of me, my cousin Kay , and Suzanne in his class, I'm surprised. he didn't decide to quit altogether and be a truck driver! His patience w/ us was amazing - we were BAD! But somehow we all got through it and went on to the 8th grade where, maybe (?) We had matured a bit by then. I am so sorry for your loss, but what a wonderful life he lived and shared w/ his family and everyone! I will always remember him. God bless and may you rest in peace, Mr. Fowle!

June 19, 2019

Ginger and Claud Hodges

Douglas Brown

June 19, 2019

David Fowle was one of the best principles WHS ever had. He was a serious person but had a gentle way about him. He sure left his mark at Washington High. My prayers at this time.

Kathy and John Schultz

June 19, 2019

John and I met David in the Optimist Pool--what a perfect place for David to be. He always greeted us with a big smile and a hearty slap on the back. Conversations ALWAYS included what his beautiful granddaughters were up to and when we had our first grandchild he never failed to ask about her and let us know that we were embarking on the best time of our lives as grandparents. David, we will miss your smile and your advice on family, exercise and life but are happy knowing that you are not suffering but swimming and running to your heart's delight.

Isabel Mangan

June 18, 2019

I always thought Pappy was the nicest and most handsome man. I know my father Charles Hoyt thought the world of him. I wish I could come up for the service. I send my condolences to all of the family.

Annette & Sandy, III Jennette

June 18, 2019

Thoughts and prayers to the Family. Pappy and Sandy are having a great time together again!

Richard Wilson

June 18, 2019

Pappy Fowle was my seventh grade teacher in Washington. But that's only part of what he was to me and many others. As an officer in the North Carolina Army National Guard, Pappy Fowle was an outstanding soldier. My father, Sam Wilson, told me that many times. My father, many others and I had great respect for this man. Forty years later Pappy Fowle and I searched for each other in at least two triathlons. We never got together but we have our memories. Condolences to the Fowle/Carter family.

Rita Modlin Coggins

June 18, 2019

Mr. Fowle was a wonderful principal for us struggling teens. I remember hearing him called Pappy. But I could never call him that...he was an adult. Prayers to the family. And much love for sharing Pappy with us.

Audibel Hearing

June 14, 2019

Marilyn and Heather from Audibel Hearing want to wish our condolences to Peggy and the Fowle family in their time of grief. He will be missed.

Lauren Jones

June 14, 2019

Dr. Fowle was my junior high school principal at Daniels. He was a stellar and welcoming educator because he listened to us and saw positive potential in us. Later, in high school, it was my joyful honor to befriend his beloved daughter Margaret, who is one of my dearest lifelong friends. What a wonderful legacy this scholarly gentleman has left, both as an educator and a family man! I offer my deepest condolences to the Fowle family, especially my buddy Maggie!

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Sign David Fowle's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 7, 2020

Denise Spaugh posted to the memorial.

June 27, 2019

Kay (Potts) Andrew posted to the memorial.

June 21, 2019

Phyllis Encinias posted to the memorial.