With profound sadness and broken hearts, we announce the passing of Katherine (Katie) Renee Lowe, who left this world unexpectantly on April 16, 2026, at the age of 25, in Oxford, Mississippi. Though her time with us was far too brief, Katie lived a life filled with love, purpose, and promise. She was a remarkable young woman whose determination, love of family and a joyful spirit touched everyone who knew her.

 Katie was born on November 13, 2000, in Peoria, IL to Jeff and Shawn Renaud Lowe. In addition to her parents, Katie is survived by her sister, Ally Lowe, and her beloved dog, Nutmeg; her maternal grandparents, David and Marilyn Renaud of Charleston, MO and her paternal grandparents, Bud and Carol Lowe of Peoria, IL. She also leaves behind special aunts, uncles, cousins and many dear friends. 

Katie graduated in 2019 from Legend High School in Parker, CO. She attended college at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN, graduating in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. Thereafter, she attended law school at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, MS, where she received her Juris Doctorate posthumously on May 7, 2026. 

Katie’s unwavering drive was one of her defining qualities. Katie graduated with honors at each level of her education and participated in various honor societies and programs along the way (including being an officer for Tennessee Women of Haslam, an ambassador for Haslam Business College and an associate editor of the Mississippi Law Journal). Following law school, Katie planned to begin her legal career as an associate at the Nashville law firm of Smith Cashion and Orr, PLC.

 Katie lived her short life to the fullest, lit up every room and was a friend to all. Katie found great joy in music and loved singing, and she shared her gift with others by being a member of her high school and college choirs. She was a devoted college football fan of both the Tennessee Volunteers and the Ole Miss Rebels. One of her greatest joys was bringing family and friends together by hosting parties and gameday tailgates. 

A visitation and memorial service celebrating Katie’s life will be held on August 29, 2026, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Peoria, IL. The visitation will begin at 9:15 AM CT, with the memorial service to follow at 10:00 AM CT. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Concordia Lutheran School, Peoria, IL (https://www.concordiapeoria.com/donate/), in Katie’s memory.