James Fred Lowry

Born November 2, 1936 in Sulphur, OK, Fred was the son of Clyde Lowry and Glenn (Donoho) Lowry. He was also welcomed by a big brother, Clyde Austin or C.A. Lowry who Fred always looked up to. Growing up in Oklahoma, Texas, and Georgia, Fred entered the U.S. Navy at an early age where he proudly served his country for more than 20 years. Through his service, Fred was awarded numerous medals including the Vietnam Service Medal.

Upon his honorable discharge, Fred began working as a pipeline welder. Through this endeavor, he would work alongside his brother as the two found themselves working the Alaskan Pipeline. Once on a pipeline job in Ada, Oklahoma, Fred would meet Reta Kay Williams, an attractive cocktail waitress. The two immediately hit it off and it wasn’t long until she became the love of his life. The couple would make their home in Tulsa in 1976 where Fred began attending the Spartan School of Aeronautics.

Upon completion of his training, and with first-hand experience as an airline mechanic, Fred would eventually serve as an instructor at the school. He would ultimately have a long and successful career with Rockwell, McDonnell Douglass, and American Airlines where he retired as an inspector.

It would be an understatement to say that Fred had a strong personality. In fact, if he never got mad at you, the truth is - he probably didn’t like you! Be that as it may, Fred had a huge heart and was extremely generous with his resources and time. One always knew where they stood with Fred Lowry. He was very matter of fact and always more than willing to share his opinion. When in the presence of Fred, he would likely tell you a joke and reveal that slight, crack of a smile in his fashion. A great storyteller, Fred’s Navy stories, told at the lodges over coffee, will not soon be forgotten.

A man who has been described as firm, yet comical, Fred was an upstanding being who always strived to do the right thing. His family was of utmost importance as he loved each of them dearly. In addition, he spent countless hours with his brethren in the Masonic fraternity and enjoyed every minute. Fred once said, “The two greatest things that ever happened to me were meeting my wife, Reta, and joining Freemasonry.”

Fred served as Worshipful Master of Gene Autry Masonic Lodge #185 in Catoosa and remained dedicated, through the years, as an integral part of his community. A great ritualist, Fred devoted countless hours to teaching candidates lectures and degree work to newly installed officers. Fred earned the highest honor of the 33rd Degree with the Tulsa Scottish Rite and was also an active member of Pilgrim-Rock Lodge #522 in Tulsa, Tulsa Lodge #71, Will Rogers Lodge #53 in Claremore, the Akdar Shriners in Tulsa, and the Tulsa York Rite. Fred was also involved with the Oklahoma Lodge of Research, served as a District Deputy Grand Master, as well as several important committees with the Oklahoma Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.

In his spare time, Fred could be found with a book in one hand and a piece of chocolate in the other. Earlier days would find Fred effortlessly twirling Reta around the dance floor as they enjoyed the music, the crowd, and most of all each other.

Fred passed away on Monday, October 28, 2019 in Owasso. He was 82.

Surviving family members include: his children: Glenna Bailey, Donna Smith and her husband, Jonathan all of Douglas, GA, Sherri Thompson and her husband, John of Tulsa, and Jason Lowry and his wife Taynia of Bartlesville; his grandchildren: Miranda, Lindsey, Matthew, Samantha, and Evan; and 10 great grandchildren. Fred was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jimmy Lowry; and brother, C.A. Lowry.

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