Joseph Archie Lowery, Jr., 98, a native of Pembroke, North Carolina, was born on November 12, 1927, and called home on December 27, 2025. His parents were the late Katie Lee and Joseph Archie Lowry, Sr.

Archie was loved by those who surrounded him. He can be described as having a warrior spirit, a generous heart, and incredible work ethic. Archie enlisted in the United States Army when he was 19 years old and was stationed in both the Philippines and Japan. His other notable traits were quick-witted humor, storytelling ability filled with life lessons, and his love of hummingbirds. His gifts allowed him to have many careers which included landscaper, Amtrak railroad worker, entrepreneur (owner of Best Fuels Convenience Store), and land developer including the establishments of Sampson Junction and Riverdance Subdivision.

He was known affectionately by several nicknames - Pops, Papa Smurf, River Beaver Man (for his love of the outdoors and the Lumber River), and Mayor of Harpers Ferry.

Archie was preceded in death by his parents; wives - Mary Jacqueline (Jackie) Lowery and Sarah Locklear Lowery; brothers - Julius Lowry, Kenneth Lowry, David Lowry, Donald T. Lowry; sisters - Mary L. Lowry, Sarah L. Jacobs.

He is survived by daughters - Revonda Lowery, Cathy Lowery Graham (Vince); sons - Joseph Lowery (Janine), Don Revels (Ann Genette); grandchildren - Joshua Lowery, Jamison Lowery (Emily), Jeremy Lowery (Darina), Peyton Graham (Arielle), and Marisa Hopper; sisters - Katherine Walker, Brenda Carter, Susan Lowry (Norbert), and Carol Peace (Dave); brother - Jonathan Lowry (Bonita); and Jackie’s children - Charlotte Hopper, Preston Osteen (Susan), and Charles Osteen (Chona); and lifelong friend Cleatis Hunt.

As we honor Archie’s life, he leaves this piece of advice: “Spend more time with family and friends, have meaningful life experiences, and care less about possessions.” As you go through life, remember - do something kind today, help someone, say a prayer, assist your neighbor, and pay it forward. Archie - Rest in Peace, your work here is done, but your love and long life will be celebrated through your legacy.

The family is grateful for loving caretakers through the years: Martha Dial, Myra Locklear, Sheila Marshall, Virginia Hunt, Pat Jackson, Mary Hardin, Alex Collins, Tenita Jacobs, Kim Locklear, Valerie Locklear, Rachal Davis, Annette Leake, Tonya Locklear, Devin Locklear, Kirstie Cummings, Leola Hunt, Rhonda Maynor, and Sierra Sanderson.  The family also appreciates the professionalism and loving support of Interim HealthCare (Bobbi Richardson, Rhonda Auten, Kellie Locklear).

In lieu of flowers - donations can be made to: 

The UNC-Pembroke Foundation

Joseph Archie Lowery, Jr., Scholarship

P. O. Box 1510, Pembroke, NC 28372

www.uncp.edu/give