Jimmie John Lowe

Jimmie John Lowe, also known as Jay or JJ, age 72, passed away peacefully, but unexpectedly on April 17, 2026. Jimmie was born on May 29, 1953, in Charleston, West Virginia to James Earl and Joanna B. (Hall) Lowe.

Jimmie spent his formative years in Aiken, South Carolina and knew early on that he wanted to make his own way in the world and so left his familiar surroundings for Grand Rapids, MI in his early twenties.

Adventure for Jimmie was trying new things. Cohosting the GRTV public access television show called Hot Air was a fond memory. He started work as a cab driver for Oakwood Cab company in the 1970s. His first full-time role was for Klise Manufacturing as a CNC machine operator. He loved creating things out of wood and was a proud member of the United Furniture Workers Union—he adopted the CB radio handle “Union Man”. He also played on the company softball team.

In his free time, you would often find him outdoors fishing, camping, hunting, or hanging with his friends at deer camp. He officiated the R&D Bass Fishing Tournament for more than 10 years. He also enjoyed reading science fiction and playing the guitar.

Jimmie loved the freedom of the open road, whether it was watching Nascar, long roadtrips back to South Carolina, or two-tracking in the woods. He made a career change as a truck driver and drove long haul routes for NTB before retiring in 2017.

After retirement, Jimmie became a member of the American Legion Post #459. He was proud to be the son of a WWII Veteran. He was proud of his extended family and close friends who served and sacrificed for our country. Jimmie attended meetings and assisted wherever needed, always with a smile. He also was a proud member of the St. Stanislaus Aid Society where he volunteered and enjoyed connecting with his community there. His favorite was running karaoke, laughing (he had the best laugh), and dancing the night away with Amy.

His passion was his family, especially being a dad and a grandpa. He taught his four daughters how to fish, how to build a fire, and how to drive a car. The grandkids called him Papa and he will be remembered for his signature phrase, “Raise your hand if you’re a stinker.” He loved holidays with the family, watching Wheel of Fortune with Amy, lazy days on the water and his weekly Wendy's treat.

Jimmie is survived by his children: Jeannie (William) Wiarda and Tara Lowe from first wife Michelle Saigeon, Steven Kate (Wick) Everlit and Emily Lowe from second wife Amanda Eno; Partner Amy Le Van; grandchildren: Joe, Moses, Josiah, Hannah, Levi, Zuri, Baela, and Isaac; his great-grandson Jeremiah; his sisters Christy (Jim) Peele and Jeanna (Mark) Hanna and his nieces and nephews: Brian (Dani), Drew (Tori), Heather (Amy), and David as well as his great friend he loved like a brother, Hank Jansma.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2-5 pm Sunday, May 17 at American Legion Northeastern Post #459, 658 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Legion Post #459 to help with programs that support our veterans.