6/22/2018
On Friday, June 22, 2018, at 7:20pm, J. Donald Lownes of East Earl, PA, breathed his last, took the hand of Jesus and walked into his heaven-home. He was 86 years old. Raised in Springfield, PA, he was a 1950 graduate of Springfield High School and worked in his parents’ business, Lownes Flowers. In 1953 he married his loving wife, Carol Haworth Lownes, and began an excavation business. In 1954 they purchased land in West Chester, PA, to build a house and to establish Lownes Nursery and Landscape Design. Don’s horticultural expertise and creative design became known throughout the region, and he later taught classes in the Chester County Night School.
Another passion, in addition to horticulture, was music. From 1951-1963, Don and Carol managed their dance band, The Sentimentalists. Don played trumpet and led the band while Carol was the band’s vocalist. Music continued to be a highlight as Don encouraged his daughters in various musical pursuits, and he later became one of the biggest fans of the New Holland Band, eagerly awaiting their concerts each year.
Don was very proud of his service in the Naval Air Reserve. He signed up while still in his senior year of high school, and after a four-year term, signed up for another four years. Stationed out of Willow Grove, one of his primary duties was as an aerial photographer.
Photography was a passion starting in high school, taking photos for the school yearbook. It continued throughout this life but he devoted extra time to this hobby after moving to East Earl in Lancaster County in 2000. His photos were often seen at local competitions bearing blue ribbons.
Don was the son of the late Joseph and Grace (Custer) Lownes and is survived by his loving wife of almost 65 years, Carol (Haworth) Lownes, and three daughters, Bette (married to George) Ferris, Linda (married to Greg) Hytha, and Donna (married to Paul) Brady. He is survived by eight grandchildren who dearly loved their Grandad: Mark Ferris (married to Alexandria), Robert Hytha (engaged to Katharine), Alexander Hytha, Carrie Hytha Morgan (married to Noah), Christopher Hytha, Daniel Brady, Brian Brady and Steven Brady. He is also survived by his four siblings: George Lownes (married to Kay), Jane Lownes Shea (married to Marty), Ken Lownes (married to Judi), and Bruce Lownes, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate his life on Tuesday, July 10, at 10:30am at Birmingham Friends Meeting in West Chester, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory at – https://tinyurl.com/NHBand-Contribution