Mr. Jerry Ray Lowery

Jerry Lowery, of Anderson, left our world on December 22, 2018, to find His greater reward at the age of 86. Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Janet to whom he was married for over 66 years. Meeting as teenagers, their love served as a reminder to anyone who encountered the couple that real beauty is found in deep, loving, and lasting relationships. He often said to her, “I knew you were the one the day we met.” Jerry is also survived by daughters Cheryl Lowery of Noblesville and Carol Lowery Bailey (David) of Galesburg, Michigan; son Chris Lowery (Jerilyn) of Batesville; and three grandchildren he adored, Jarrod Lowery (Emily Lafferty) of Chicago, Marissa Bailey of Grand Rapids, and Jordan Lowery Bergquist (Brad) of Batesville. Known for his positive attitude, easy nature, and overall kindness, Jerry touched the lives of many people over the years. A central part of his life, Jerry was employed by General Motors for 41 years, where he completed a five-year apprenticeship and built a career in skilled trades in the maintenance department of Delco-Remy. Working many years on the third shift and often six- and seven-day weeks, his work ethic and commitment to his fellow workers and company were second to none. He loved GM and all that he and they had done together over the years. To show that allegiance, he and Janet bought new GM vehicles on a regular basis. He would say a car probably needed to be traded at about 10,000 miles, always with a wink. Jerry’s life was also filled with many volunteer and service roles. He was quick to help anyone, whether in a charitable organization, through a home improvement project, or any other manner. He was a member of the Masons, beginning as a young man, the Shriners, and the Scottish Rite. He gave his time, talents, and treasurers to each. The mission of the Shriners, in assisting children through their network of hospitals, particularly touched him and his support for that cause was embedded in his heart. Jerry loved his service as a volunteer fire fighter in Middletown and at Delco-Remy. In addition, he gave of himself to the Madison County Mutual Aid Society, as president and a member for many years, coordinating amongst fire departments to serve the needs of individuals and their communities. In addition, over the years he found himself to be an unofficial member of the Pendleton Fire Department, where he had many friendships and helped with a variety of needs, just because he enjoyed being with his friends and helping others. Growing up in Middletown, Jerry would often share stories about his days as a youth. While many of the stories were told several times over the years, family and friends always enjoyed the interesting details and funny charm found in his tales. From sitting on the porch with his grandmother eating popcorn and participating in youthful hijinks to his days visiting Wawasee, traveling to see relatives in Nebraska, and witnessing construction of Mount Rushmore, his stories always held the attention of loved ones and new acquaintances alike. And, he was a lifelong member of the Middletown Methodist Church. While still a young man, and shortly after marrying Janet in 1952, Jerry answered the call of his country and entered the U.S. Army. He served in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and Korea, crossing the Pacific during the signing of the Armistice. His tales of those days were always filled with pride, honor, and even respectful humor. His service to his nation was like all of the things he did – encountered with optimism, promise, and the joy of simply serving others. Though he will be missed greatly, Jerry will remain in the hearts and minds each day of those who knew and loved him because of his gentle and kind words, actions, and deeds. Services will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 27, at Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Service & Crematory, conducted by Middletown Masonic Lodge #271 and Don White. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or to Madison County Leukemia.