Frances Helms Lowder

Frances Helms Lowder, lovingly known as Loretta, was born on January 12, 1940, in Albemarle, North Carolina. She blessed this world with her kindness and warmth for 86 years until her peaceful passing on March 1, 2026, in Hillsborough, surrounded by loved ones.

Loretta was a woman of deep faith and devotion, always putting the needs of others above her own. She took the teachings of Jesus to heart and held an unconditional love for all of her fellow man. She embraced everyone she met with a friendly smile, kind words, and a heart full of love. She graduated from Badin High School in 1958 before attending Furman University. While in college she met and then married the love of her life, Lane Lowder.

Her passion for family was unmatched; she cherished hosting family gatherings, particularly during holidays and Friday night dinners, where laughter and joy filled the air. Loretta was a keeper of family traditions and poured her heart into every moment spent with her loved ones. She loved her role as a mother to her children, Lisa, Jim, Lynn, and Lori, and later as a grandmother to her cherished grandchildren: Jamison, Caroline, Olivia, Sarah, Gigi, and Quill, as well as her great-granddaughter, Charlotte. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, and she knew how to make each one feel uniquely loved. She also held dear those who joined her growing family through the years, Jerome Simala (husband of Lisa Lowder), Rhonda Bennett Lowder (wife of Jim Lowder), and Kyle Hoopes (husband of Lori Lowder Hoopes).

An avid reader with a profound love of history, Loretta could often be found immersed in a book or enjoying everything Irish. Her green thumb shone during the summers as she cultivated vibrant gardens that mirrored her zest for life. A skilled cake decorator, she brought sweetness to family celebrations with her delightful creations.

Loretta is survived by her dear brother, Rayvon Helms, and his wife, Jenny Helms, as well as her loving children, grandchildren and great grandchild. Though she has departed from this earthly plane, her legacy of love, kindness, and a warm heart will forever live in the memories of those who had the privilege to know her.

Loretta was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edwin Lane Lowder, her parents, James Albert Helms and Frances Juanita Russell Helms, and her great-granddaughter, Josie Reece Dennis. She left a mark on the hearts of many and will be fondly remembered as the embodiment of love and kindness. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of her family and all who were touched by her grace.

To honor Loretta's compassion for others, please consider a contribution to Feeding America https://give.feedingamerica.org or a local food bank instead of flowers.