Lowell Lee Hershner, 85, courageously passed away on June 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, patriotism, and unwavering devotion to family.

Born on February 16, 1941, to Donald and Inez (Reed) Hershner, Lowell grew up in Johnsville, Ohio. He was a star quarterback for what he fondly called the “Johnsville Tech” football team and earned the nickname “Dynomite.” He graduated with the Johnsville High School Class of 1959, maintaining friendships with his classmates throughout his entire life.

At just 17 years old, with his mother’s signature, Lowell entered the inactive military reserves while still in high school. At 18, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving active duty overseas aboard the USS Essex aircraft carrier. His tours of duty took him throughout Europe and beyond, including Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and Africa. During his
service, the USS Essex became the first ship involved in the Bay of Pigs operation. Lowell was also part of Operation Monsoon, during which President Dwight D. Eisenhower was transported aboard the aircraft carrier from North Africa to Toulon, France. Lowell was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy and remained deeply proud of his military service
throughout his life. He was a dedicated member of VFW Post 5101.

Lowell returned to his hometown after his discharge from the Navy and, at a company Christmas party, met the love of his life, Anna “Anne” Gouker. They married on September 28, 1963, and shared nearly 62 devoted years together. They built a life centered on love,family, laughter, and loyalty while raising their children in Lexington.

Lowell’s early career focused on kitchen design. His natural talent was quickly recognized, and his expertise was sought after by several companies. He once earned a company trip to the Bahamas, a destination that became one of his and Anne’s favorite memories together.
Lowell eventually became a member of the J&B Acoustical family and retired as Vice President of Sales after a successful 38-year career.

Beyond work, Lowell poured his heart into his community and family. He served as a Boy Scout troop leader for his sons, Kevin and Tony, proudly helping craft ribbon-winning Pinewood Derby cars. He coached fifth-grade boys basketball and Little League baseball for his sons, as well as Tiffany’s softball team, earning the admiration of countless young athletes and families. A loyal supporter of Lexington sports, Lowell helped build the high
school football field bleachers and install the light poles, under which there might still be a few buried beer cans.

Even after retirement, Lowell never stopped working or helping others. He purchased a dump truck and spent years assisting friends and neighbors with small hauling jobs. He was a man of endless talents. From cutting hair, a skill inherited from his father, to designing and finishing basements, and building anything someone could imagine, Lowell seemed capable of doing it all. His generosity was quiet and constant. He performed countless acts of kindness without seeking recognition or praise, and the number of lives he touched will never be fully known.

Though Lowell carried a tough exterior and loved joking that he was “one tough son of a —,” those closest to him knew the extraordinarily gentle and loving heart underneath. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandson, delighting in their laughter and proudly sharing their accomplishments. He teased Hannah and Haylee with his quick wit and taught them the art of a sharp comeback. He spent treasured time with Dominic – giving scooter rides and saving hummingbirds. His love for Anne never wavered; he cared for her tenderly through her brief illness and honored her memory every day thereafter. Lowell was blessed by his daughter-in-law, Melissa, and son-in-law, Jason, who admired and gently helped care for Lowell in his final hours.

Lowell made sure nothing was left unsaid. Knowing his days were limited, he welcomed every visitor, shared every sentiment, and left this world with no regrets.

Lowell is survived by his children: Lowell Anthony (Tony) Hershner, Donald Kevin (Melissa) Hershner, and Tiffany (Jason) Gavula; three grandchildren, Hannah (Gage) Swartzentruber, Dominic Gavula, and Haylee Hershner; his great-grandson, Callan “Rocky” Swartzentruber; his sister, Jacque (Tom) Downs, sisters-in-law Joan and Louella Hershner; and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne; daughter-in-law, Debra Hershner; his parents; and his siblings, Shirley Hershner, Don Hershner, Imajean Kinton, Judi Prater, and Larry Hershner.

Friends and relatives may visit Friday, June 26 from 4-7:00 p.m. at Snyder Funeral Homes on Lexington Avenue. A private family burial for Lowell and Anne will take place at Shauck Cemetery in Johnsville at a later date.

Lowell will be remembered for his strength, humor, craftsmanship, service to country, and, above all, his deep and enduring love for his family. While his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his family finds comfort in believing that Lowell and Anne are together once again in the forever after.

Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home

Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com