James Shelby Bowron, Jr., 76, of Guntersville, Alabama, passed away on February 15, 2026. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on December 4, 1949, Shelby dedicated his life to helping others, culminating in a distinguished career as an Emergency Room Trauma Doctor at Emory University.
Shelby graduated from Mountain Brook High School in 1969 and the University of Alabama before earning his medical degree from the University of Alabama Medical School. Beyond his professional achievements, he was deeply passionate about Border Collie training, Tennessee Walking Horses, and Alabama football. He spent many joyful hours fishing on Lake Guntersville and cheering for the Crimson Tide.
He is survived by his daughter, Lynne Bowron Sullivan (Robert), grandson, Thomas James Sullivan (Claire-Ann), and sister Dodie Bowron Roberts (Jimmy). He was preceded in death by his parents, Dodie Black Bowron and James Shelby Bowron, and his beloved wife, Lynne Carnathan Bowron. He leaves behind a number of cousins, and his sister in law, Judy Sansom.
His family would like to thank Bertha Lopez for her unwavering friendship in caring for not only Shelby, but his wife Lynne throughout her illness. His family is grateful to the Nava’s family for their gracious inclusion and care.
A visitation will be held at Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 10-11 a.m. followed by a graveside service at Elmwood Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society (P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741), the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (P.O. Box 91891 Washington, DC 20090), or the charity of your choice.
