Charles Gibson Lowry 1921-2012,MB,BCh,BAO 1944
(Obituary by R. Brian Lowry, cousin)

Charlie Lowry was born in Limavady, the third child and only son of Max and Alice(McDermott) Lowry. He was educated privately by a governess together with his sisters Norah and Hilary before entering the newly established Limavady Grammar School at age 10. He was named after his distinguished uncle  C.G.Lowry (Professor of Midwifery at Queen’s, 1920-1945).

He played hockey for his school and rugby for Limavady town before entering Queen's where he qualified in 1944. At Queen's he was active in rugby where he captained the "A" team and tennis earning his colours (Half Blue) in the latter sport. After qualifying he attempted to join up but was turned down on medical grounds. He spent 18 months at Templemore Avenue Children's Hospital with a view to specialising in paediatrics but decided on general practice after doing several locums for Dr Frances Thomas in Bellaghy. She invited him to become a partner and he worked there until his retirement in 1989.

In 1950 he married Patricia(Paddy) Agnew and together they had three children Rob, Jan and Mark. Under Paddy's guidance he learned to ride with great success, riding to hounds with the South Derry Harriers as well as riding and winning in Point to Point races and under I.N.H.S rules..He obtained a Trainer's licence and trained many winners. He maintained his interest in sports, especially tennis which he played up to the age of 84. He took a great interest in the local community being a committee member of Bellaghy Presbyterian Church for 50 years, a committee member of the Bellaghy Development Association and a keen member of the Bellaghy Historical Society. It was through his persistence that Bellaghy Bawn was preserved by the Historic Monuments Department of the D.O.E.

What of the man himself? He was an example of a life well lived, an outstanding family doctor who put his patients first, thoughtful, kind and possessed a wonderful dry sense of humour. He enjoyed the love and support of his wife of 61 years and his children. He gave them a happy childhood and indeed passed on many of his gifts to his grandchildren.

Back to List

Top of Page