James "Jim" Belton Lowrey

James Belton Lowrey beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away in his home on February 24, 2021, from complications of Parkinson's disease. Jim was born in Selma, Alabama to Mary Louise (Jones) and Gerald Broughton Lowrey on February 24, 1949. Growing up in Thomaston, Alabama, he was the varsity quarterback and led his football team to a State Championship in 1966 and was the Valedictorian of his 1967 graduating class. He went on to graduate with a Bachelors’ degree in Education from Auburn University. While there, Jim was elected President of his Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity and quarterbacked his fraternity intramural team the “Thundering Herd” to the League Championship in 1970, defeating 17 teams in the process—something he regularly bragged about at family gatherings.

For decades, he served as an esteemed teacher at Crestview High School, having an abiding respect for his students and colleagues. Jim had a contagious sense of humor in-and-out of the classroom, leaving an indelible memory with each student. No one can forget his Tarzan-like yell to gain the attention of his students, earning him the nickname of “Jungle Jim.” His passion for teaching was evidenced in wanting to be remembered simply as "Teacher."

Jim enjoyed being outdoors—from sailing to mountain hiking—he embraced it all, but fishing was always at the top of the list. While he had a deep love for adventure, there was an even deeper love for his family and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Mary Louise (Jones-Lowrey) Mickler and Gerald Lowrey, and brother John Darrington Lowrey. He is survived by wife Joyce Tindell Lowrey, daughters Dr. Mary Elizabeth Lowrey-Rogers (Brian), Kay Darrington Marshall (Jason), stepdaughters Kelly Logan and Kim Barberree (Rick), brother Dr. Gerald B. Lowrey, Jr. and sister Elizabeth A. Warren (Oliver) and family, as well as eight grandchildren—Gates, Delaney, James, Danny, Caleb, Cameron, Kaitlin, and Taylor who will miss their “Paw-Paw” dearly.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021 beginning at 4:30 P.M. at Almarante Cemetery located at 7906 FL-85, Laurel Hill, FL 32567. Dr. Gerald Lowrey and Chaplain Andy Peavy will officiate the service. Pallbearers are Joe Martin, Rick Barberree, Brian Rogers, Jason Marshall, Lavory Falks, and Justin Little. Honorary Pallbearers are Jimmy Johnson, John Logan, Caleb Logan, and Cameron Logan.

Following the graveside service, the family will receive guests at The Depot restaurant located at 1109 5th St, Florala, AL 36442. Light refreshments will be provided.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview.  Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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