Rachel Rae Harlow

Rachel Rae Reese Harlow, 97, peacefully passed away on Ash Wednesday February 18, 2026, and is now joyfully reunited with her husband William in the presence of her Lord Jesus Christ. Rachel was born in Halifax County on January 17, 1929, the daughter of Magnolia Bryant Reese and James Cornelius Reese. One of seven siblings, she was the sister of Herbert, Owen, Anne, Mae, JW, and Jeanette.

Rachel was married to William Harlow on April 10, 1944. They became parents to William Ray (Maria), James Timothy, and Rita Kaye. They were grandparents to Sonja, Ray II, Cristina, Timothy and Summer, and to numerous great grandchildren as well. 

Mrs. Rachel (as she came to be known to most of her customers) began a long, successful career in the jewelry business at the age of 15 at Lynches Jewelers in downtown Roanoke Rapids. She then went on to manage another local business, Dalton’s Jewelers. After working there for many years, Rachel’s employer Marvin Levy and his wife Virginia encouraged her to open her own jewelry store, and Rachel often spoke fondly of them for their friendship and belief in her potential to own her own business. Rachel and William proudly opened Rachel’s Jewelers in the late 1970’s, and Rachel enjoyed decades of dressing up and spending her days at her jewelry counters welcoming her customers whether just for a chat or a special purchase. She and William were unfailingly generous with their success, providing assistance to many family members in furthering their educations. 

In spite of being dedicated to her career and working long hours, Rachel loved gardening and always found time to cook wonderful southern meals for her family. She and William often entertained friends and family at their country home where they raised their family, and at their Lake Gaston home, both of which were favorite gathering places for their loved ones. Rachel was fiercely independent until she no longer was able, and just before she turned 94, she became a resident at the Landings of Lake Gaston where she spent her final years. She enjoyed visits from many nieces, nephews, and other family members. Rachel became a favorite of many of the caregivers there and the family is grateful for the dignity and care she received from them, as well as her Gentiva Hospice nurses.

Rachel’s life will be honored on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 1pm with a service at Quankie Baptist Church located at 4070 Hwy 48, Roanoke Rapids, NC, 27870 with graveside burial and reception in the fellowship hall immediately following. Flowers are welcome at the service or donations may be made to Quankie Baptist Church, 4070 Hwy 48, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870. Online condolences may be sent to www.hockadayfs.com. Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service are serving the Harlow family.