Richard Yates Rowe (December 12, 1888 – March 19, 1973) was an American politician and businessman.

Born in Jacksonville, Illinois, Rowe served in the United States Navy during World War I.

He received his bachelor's degree from University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign.

His son was Harris Rowe who served in the Illinois House of Representatives.

Rowe died in Jacksonville, Illinois on March 19, 1973.