Roderick “Leon” Marlowe, 80, of Traphill, N.C., passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

Leon was born June 15, 1945, to the late S.C. Marlowe and Ennice Prevette Marlowe. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later retired from Hoechst Celanese, where he worked as a machine mechanic. He was also a member of Masonic Lodge # 154.

Leon had a deep love for bluegrass music, enjoyed spending time tending his garden, and took great pride in working with his hands. He was a “friend of Bill W.” and celebrated 37 years of sobriety, a milestone he held with great pride. Leon was a friend to everyone he encountered.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Amy Wright (Eddie) and Cora Whitley (Brian); son, Ryan Marlowe (Katie); grandchildren, Kaleb Wright, Hailey Wright, Hannah Whitley, Carley Whitley; and a host of cousins.

In addition to his parents, Leon was also preceded in death by his brothers, Alan Marlowe and S.C. Marlowe Jr., and his lifelong friend, Sandy Austin.

A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in the Troutman Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Jonathon Sherrill officiating with full military honors and Masonic honors. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 1:30 until 3 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Your Father’s House, 358 Zephyr Road, Elkin, NC 28621.

Arrangements for Mr. Marlowe are in care of Troutman Funeral Home.