Julius Raymond “Ray” Lowery, Jr., 79, of Pell City, Alabama, passed away on February 22, 2026.

Ray was a lifelong resident of Pell City and was known for his strong character, outspoken spirit, and deep love for his family. He graduated from Pell City High School in 1965, attended Snead State Community College and Alabama College (later named the University of Montevallo), and earned his law degree from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in 1972. Following law school, he worked for Alabama Attorney General Bill Baxley in Montgomery. He then went to work for Albert Nichols in Ensley, Alabama, until he decided to come back home to Pell City to practice law in 1981. He then practiced law for more than 50 years, beginning in 1972, and faithfully served his community as City Court Judge in Pell City from 1990 to 1999, dedicating his life to justice and to the people he represented.

Ray never met a stranger and always made his presence known. Those who knew him will remember his larger-than-life personality, his honest words—sometimes a little too honest—and his one-of-a-kind presence. He was truly one of the all-time good guys, a rare man who expressed his emotions and someone you would never forget if you ever met him.

He loved his family deeply, loved Auburn, and had a passion for whatever he set his heart to. An avid Auburn fan, he truly bled orange and blue and enjoyed cheering on his Tigers in every sport—especially Auburn football—sharing that love with family and friends. His grandchildren lovingly called him “Du,” and he treasured every moment he spent as a grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Dorothy Jean Lowery; his children, Amy (Jason) Goodgame, Mandy (Jay) Adams, and Julius Raymond “Trey” (Trish) Lowery, III; and his cherished grandchildren, Blakeley Goodgame, Briley Goodgame, Molly Ann Adams, Vann Edward Adams, Kaelyn Lowery, Breanna Lowery, and Braedyn Lowery. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius Raymond Lowery, Sr. and Elise Lowery, and his sister, Mary Anne (Charles) Robinson.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at Usrey Funeral Home in Pell City on February 24, 2026.

Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., with interment to follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Jay Adams, Vann Edward Adams, David Broom, Jason Goodgame, Lyle Harmon, Richard Kniep, Jr., Braedyn Lowery, Trey Lowery, Ramsey Saab, George Walker and Littleton Yarbrough.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Life Methodist Church of Pell City or the Pell City Schools Education Foundation in honor of his life and legacy.

Ray will be remembered for his steady presence, his deep devotion to his family, and the lasting impact he made on his community. His life was one of service, strength, and love, and his legacy will live on through all who knew him.

Condolences may be offered online at www.usreyfuneralhome.com.

Usrey Funeral Home – Pell City is assisting the family.