James R. Cowart

Funeral services for James R. Cowart, 80, of Lufkin will be held Friday, March 31, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Melba Rodgers officiating. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park. Mr. Cowart was born September 6, 1936 in Colmesneil, Texas to the late Lucy Carter, and died Tuesday, March 28, 2017 in Lufkin. Mr. Cowart had resided in the Lufkin area for most of his life. He was the owner of Cowart/Toledo Upholstery for over 40 years and he was of the Baptist faith. The love of his life was his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was loved and respected by all. He never spoke ill of anyone. He had the biggest heart and would go to great lengths to help his family and friends. He taught us to love each other and forgive, be strong, and look for the better in everything. He will be missed. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Lanora M. Cowart of Lufkin; son, Ray Cowart and wife Cindy of Houston; daughters, Shelia Sanches and husband Terry of Hudson, and Cecilia Thornton and husband Scott of Lufkin; grandchildren, Ashley Bartoskewitz and husband Brandon, Joshua Davis and wife Brittny, Chelcie Ehrlich and husband Westin, Krystal Sanches and Wesley Hughes, Cody Sanches, Kennedy Cowart, and Kolby Cowart; two great-grandchildren, Hadlee Davis and Wyatt Hughes; sisters, Gaynell Perricone and Mary Nell Conner; brothers, Johnny Odom and Bobby Beck; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. Pallbearers will be Cody Sanches, Josh Davis, Wesley Hughes, Billy Stovall, Russell Olds, Tommy Clark, Kerry Lovett, and Tillman Hoffpauir. The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com. Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.