Paulette Knotts Rowell-Rickenbaker, 80, of Columbia, died peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, January 30, 2023 after a brief illness. Born in Columbia, SC, on March 26, 1942, she was a daughter of the late Paul Jones Knotts and Jane Elizabeth Tyler Knotts. Mrs. Rowell was a longtime member of Park Street Baptist Church and recently St. Andrews Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening, cooking and anything that included being with her family. Her career was spent as the Business Manager for Richland County Public Library.

Survivors include her husband, Rev. Gleaton Rickenbaker; son, Jody Rowell; granddaughter, Elizabeth F. Moore (Zack); step-children, Paul Rickenbaker, Janet Rickenbaker and David Rickenbaker; step-grandchildren, Kenny Joswiak (Ashley), Katheryn Joswiak and Amy Rickenbaker; as well as a step-great grandaughter, A.J Rickenbaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Johnny Mac Rowell; and sister, Gayle K. Brazell.

The funeral service for Mrs. Rowell-Rickenbaker will be held at 1 o'clock, Thursday, February 2nd, at St. Andrews Baptist Church, with the Rev. Dr. Ronald D. Vaughan officiating. Burial will follow the service in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church beginning at 11 o'clock. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memorials may be made to St. Andrews Baptist Church, 230 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29210.