Obituary
Guest Book
William Jesse Lowery, Jr., affectionately known as “Chip,” was born on November 21, 1952, in Cleveland County, North Carolina. He journeyed through life with a vibrant sense of humor, a deep well of creativity, and an unwavering devotion to his family. A talented and multifaceted individual, Chip passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on May 2, 2025, at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby, leaving behind a legacy rich with love and laughter.
Chip dedicated much of his professional life to working as a box bander at the esteemed C.C.A. - Container Corporation of America. His diligence and craftsmanship were evident not only in his work but also in his personal passions. He took immense pride in building his own home from the ground up, a true showcase of his skill, determination, and creativity. Outside of work, Chip found joy and peace in yard work - a grounding connection to the earth and another expression of his creative spirit.
He is survived by his devoted life partner of 42 years, Nancy Navey, who stood faithfully by his side through all of life’s ups and downs. Chip’s love lives on through his children: Thomas Kriz, along with his wife Sandra; William “Chip” Jesse Lowery III; and Angela Marie Lowery Blacker, along with her husband David. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Lowery, and his cousin, Susie Skaggs.
Chip now joins in eternal peace those who passed before him: his beloved parents, William Jesse Lowery, Sr., and Sadie Laughridge Lowery; his brother, Russell “Rusty” Laughridge; and his sister, Linda Lowery Welmon.
A celebration of Chip’s life will be held on May 7, 2025, at Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory in Shelby, North Carolina. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 2:00 PM, officiated by Dr. Tim Sims, pastor of Bethel Baptist Church. He will be laid to rest at Sulphur Springs Methodist Church Cemetery immediately following the service.
To honor his memory, pallbearers will include: Tom Kriz, Chip Lowery, Angela Blacker, David Blacker, TJ Navey, and Jerry Hipps "best friend".
William Jesse Lowery, Jr., was a loving family man and a craftsman of many talents. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. The world is better for his presence in it - a life well-lived, filled with humor, heart, and the warmth of family.
To sign the guest book, please visit: www.clevelandfuneralservices.com
A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.
2518 West Dixon Blvd., Shelby, NC 28152 | 704-487-5811
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2518 W Dixon Blvd, Shelby, NC 28152
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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