Obituary: Velma Lowrance
Velma Lowrance, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on Monday, December 16, 2024, in Bolivar, Tennessee, at the age of 80. Born on October 26, 1944, in Mississippi County, Arkansas, Velma was a true Southern gem whose love for cooking and family defined her life.
After dedicating 15 years to the dietary department at Bolivar General Hospital, Velma retired, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment. Her culinary skills were not confined to the hospital; she also graced the kitchens of Sharecropper Restaurant, Joe’s, Dot’s, and Backwoods Restaurants, where her passion for feeding others flourished. Velma poured her heart into every meal, believing that food had the power to bring people together.
At the core of Velma’s existence was her unwavering love for her family. She thrived in the presence of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each moment spent with them adding joy to her heart. Her nurturing spirit and warm embrace will be deeply missed by her daughter, Shirley McIntyre of Bolivar; son, Timmy Lowrance (Amanda) of Atoka; cherished grandchildren, Bridgette (Jeremy), Eric (Anna), Chelsea (husband, Justin who preceded her in death), Samantha, and James, Hayden and Hunter; eight great grandchildren, Mackenzie (J.D.), Breyonna, Kaylee, Lizzie, Nixon, Madison, Finn and Keylee; and six great great grandchildren, Cash, Sawyer, Paislee, Waylon, Ace, and Ronnie. Velma’s home was often filled with laughter, stories, and the sweet sounds of gospel music, a genre that resonated with her deeply and often accompanied her through the good times and the tough.
Velma was not only a loving mother and grandmother but also a devoted sister, surrounded by the love of her sisters, Evelyn Glass and Brenda Rogers, both of Covington. Their bonds were woven through countless memories and shared experiences, reminding us all of the strength and comfort that family provides.
Though she has been preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Odell Lowrance, and her parents, James Wilburn Burns and Wilma Louise Vandiver Burns, as well as her brothers Alvin, Ernest, Paul David, and Larry Burns, and a son-in-law, Jerry McIntyre, Velma’s spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will continue to inspire future generations.
Chapel services will be held at Shackelford Funeral Directors Bolivar chapel on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. with the burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery.
In her time at the Pinson Church of God, Velma found a supportive community that celebrated her faith and shared her love for gospel music. It was within these walls she truly felt at home, and her church family will always remember the contributions she made to their fellowship.
Though Velma Lowrance has laid down her earthly burdens, her light shines brighter than ever in the hearts of her family and friends. She will forever be remembered as a woman who loved fiercely, cooked with passion, and cherished the moments spent with those she held dear. As we celebrate her life and the indelible marks she left upon our hearts, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to guide us.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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