ROCKY MOUNT – Russell Leo Gower, age 93, passed away Friday, August 26, 2011. Born in Auburn on August 05, 1918, he was the son of the late Earl Morey Gower and Emma Wall Gower. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy Smith Gower.

He is survived by his children, Ann Gower Haviland and husband Dr. James Haviland of Concord, John Russell Gower of Ashboro, Paul Edward Gower of Warrenton, and Sally Jean Birk and husband Gary Martin of Wake Forest and one granddaughter.

Due to the weather, a private service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Research Foundation or the Crohns Disease Foundation.