Nelson Hewitt (Buddy Rowell) Rowell, Jr

Nelson Hewitt Rowell, Jr., was born on August 7, 1943, to the late Nelson Hewitt Rowell, Sr., and Charity Marie Rowell. He was the second of eight children, one of whom preceded him in death.

Nelson accepted Christ at an early age by joining Bethel Lauderdale M. B. Church. He also attended Greater Zion M. B. Church.

Nelson married Adelle Vaughn on November 21, 1970. In December of 1971, they welcomed a son, Arlo. Nelson worked for Ford Motor Company. He started at Ford’s Sheffield, Alabama, plant then transferred to Ford’s Sharonville, Ohio, plant before retiring at the Nashville, Tennessee, location in 2001. Along with coworker and friend, Sammy McCray, they became the first two Black  electricians at the Sheffield plant. Nelson was also active with the UAW.

To the family and locals, Nelson was known as “Buddy.” He loved Florence, Alabama, and for that reason, he moved back to Florence after retiring. He was on his high school reunion committee, West End High Class of 1961. Nelson loved working on cars and small engines. When asked why, he said, “It’s a joy getting something to work after its being considered useless.” He also enjoyed going to car shows with his ‘37 Chevy he helped build. Gardening was also a hobby he enjoyed. Nelson was preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Adelle V. Rowell; and brother, Howard Rowell.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his son, Arlo Rowell (Michelle); daughter, Alandaer Neal; sisters, LaVonne Jerkins, Julia Price, Lemmie Rowell, Charity Johnson (Ike), and Shirley Carter (Charlie); brother, Grover Rowell; sister-in-law, Lucille Thompson (Jack); brothers- in-law, Arthur Vaughn, Louis Vaughn, and Tom Summerhill; granddaughter, Sydney Keith; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends and one aunt.

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