Willie Ruthe Meekins Lowe

Willie Ruthe Meekins Lowe, a luminary in the realm of education and a cherished matriarch, passed away on June 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy woven with love, dedication, and enduring influence. Born on January 1, 1945, Ruthe's journey began in the vibrant community of Vicksburg, Mississippi, where she would carve a path that inspired countless students and families.

A prodigious talent in her youth, Ruthe commenced her educational journey with extraordinary promise, skipping two grade levels and graduating from Rosa A. Temple High School at the tender age of 15. Following this early achievement, she further pursued her passion for education at Talladega College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1965. Her commitment to lifelong learning continued as she obtained a master’s degree in Guidance Counseling from Jackson State University in 1972 and later an Educational Specialist degree from Alcorn State University.

In 1966, Ruthe embraced a new chapter in her life as she married her beloved husband, Harrison Lowe, Jr. Together, they nurtured their family, welcoming three daughters into the world: Sheila, Tracey, and Toni. Over their 59 years of marriage, Ruthe’s unwavering support and love defined their partnership, offering a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of education.

Ruthe began her illustrious career in education at the tender age of 19, teaching at McEntire Junior High School. Her passion for guiding young minds blossomed as she transitioned into the role of guidance counselor, most notably at Warren Central Junior High School, where she profoundly impacted her students’ lives. In culmination of her nearly 40 years of service within the Vicksburg-Warren School District, she ascended to the position of Assistant Principal at Sherman Avenue Elementary, embodying the very essence of advocacy for women and children throughout her tenure. Her dedication was further exemplified through her active involvement in various service organizations, most notably her longstanding membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporation – Mu Xi Omega Chapter, and The Links, Incorporation.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ruthe was beloved not only as an educator but also as a devoted caregiver. She embraced her role as a nurturer, caring for her parents, in-laws, siblings, and extended family with unconditional love. Ruthe held her family close, finding immense joy in spoiling her grandchildren and cherishing the friendships she fostered over the years.

Ruthe was a woman of remarkable spirit. Known affectionately to her daughters as "Fancy," she had a flair for fashion and a love for art and jewelry. Her creativity shone through her early passion for painting and pottery, alongside her meticulousness in decorating any space she touched. She reveled in hosting annual New Year’s Eve parties and taking pleasure in cooking for her family, where the sound of eager footsteps would fill her home when mealtime was announced.

While she is remembered for her myriad accomplishments, it is her warmth, wisdom, and the indelible mark she left on all who crossed her path that will endure in the hearts of many. Mrs. Lowe is survived by her devoted husband, Harrison Lowe, Jr.; her children, Dr. Sheila D. Lowe, Tracey M. Lowe, and Dr. Toni Lowe-Fisher (Sharkey); her son-in-law, Zenithe K. Dukes (Alvon); her grandsons, Sharkey L. Fisher and Harrison D. Lowe Fisher; and her granddaughters, Keishondra Fisher, Missassi Dukes, and N’Jeri Dukes. Ruthe also leaves behind an extended family of cherished loved ones, including Diane Meekins Thomas, Gladys Cage, and Ruth Gordon, along with a host of nieces and nephews and special friends from the Johnson, Watts, Tolliver, Walker, Guinn, Clay, Goodman, Fisher, Stanfield, Hadley, and Black families.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles (Nicie) Meekins, Sr.; her brothers, Charles Alvin Meekins, Jr., George R. Meekins, and John S. Meekins; and her sisters, Magnoria Meekins Smothers, Alva Meekins Meeks, Charlotte Meekins Smith, and Alberta Meekins.

Ruthe’s life was one of profound devotion and selflessness, leaving an unforgettable impact on her family, friends, and community. Her legacy shall continue to inspire for generations to come.