Nora Leona Hinkle Gowe

Nora Leona Hinkle Gowe, affectionately known as “Nora Lee”, a lifelong native of Tilghman Island, passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2025, at the age of 84. Nora Lee married the love of her life, Donald Gowe, on January 7, 1961. Together they built a life centered on family, community, baseball and ice cream. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Donald, and their three children: Donald Gowe, Jr. (Shelley), Darrell Gowe (Sue), and Dorri Gowe-Lambert (Woody). She also leaves behind her sister, Suzanne (George) Hunt; seven grandchildren: Kevin, Kyler, Seaghan, Elijah (Eli), Kirra, Kellen, and Landon; and three great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her endless pride and joy. Nora Lee was especially grateful for the care and friendship shown to her by Sheretta Jenkins, Darlene Matthews, Ruth Murray, and Crystal Wilson, whose devotion and love meant the world to her and her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Hinkle and Jane Page Hinkle, as well as several very special aunts, uncles, and cousins. Born on May 1, 1941, Nora Lee was a proud graduate of St. Michaels High School, Class of 1959. She carried her Saints pride throughout her life, lighting up with joy anytime she heard “When the Saints Go Marching In.” At just 18 years old, she began working at the Talbot County Courthouse, where she built a distinguished career. She retired in 2004 as the Chief Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court, a role in which she earned the respect of many and became a valued and trusted resource to the legal community as well as the local public. In 1999, Nora Lee moved to Royal Oak, but her heart never left Tilghman—the place she always proudly called home. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling and cherished bus trips with one of her dearest friends, Doris Gibson. From March through June, she could be found at any baseball game on the Mid-Shore, especially if one of her grandchildren was playing or if the St. Michaels High School baseball team was involved. She was a die-hard Orioles fan, enjoyed many games at Camden Yards, and rarely missed a televised game. Above all, her grandchildren were the center of her world. Nora Lee never missed a sporting event, award ceremony, band performance, or birthday party. She was their biggest fan and most loyal supporter. Nora Lee will be remembered for her kind and thoughtful nature. She never hesitated to lend a hand and was always ready to help someone in need. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family and community leaves a lasting impact. A celebration of Nora Lee’s life will be held at Tilghman United Methodist Church on May 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., with visitation with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be at the Tilghman Memorial Cemetery immediately following the service. The family welcomes all to join in sharing food and memories following the service at Harrison’s Harbour Lights in St. Michaels at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Michaels High School Alumni Association, P.O. Box 538, St. Michaels, MD 21663. Please include a note in the memo to indicate the donation is in honor of Nora Lee.

Nora Leona Hinkle Gowe

May 1, 1941 - May 14, 2025