Jim E. Cowles

Jim E. Cowles, of Dallas, TX, age 88, peacefully passed away on June 12, 2022, at his home following a long battle with restrictive lung disease. Jim was a well-known and towering presence in the Texas legal landscape. A native of Wichita Falls, TX, he blended the Texas spirit of embracing challenges with a deep love for the practice of law.

Jim is survived by his children: Gary Randall Cowles, Dr. Jan Sendker (Kevin), Richard Scott Cowles, PsyD, MS and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Ethel Cowles; brother, Bill Cowles; sister, Gayle Miny; niece, Traci Frey; and his former wife of 25 years, Elizabeth Cowles (Liz).

Jim graduated from Wichita Falls High School where he was awarded the distinct title of "Mr. Howdy." While in high school, he was a member of the singing group, The Westerners, which performed both on radio and television. They patterned their style after the Sons of the Pioneers. He played the guitar and sang tenor. Jim then attended one year at Midwestern University before transferring to what he believed was the only university in Texas---the University of Texas in Austin, where he obtained both his BBA and L.L.B. While at Texas, he was a member of the Tejas Club.

Jim served two years in the United States Navy as an officer. He served an additional eleven years in the active Naval Reserve JAG Unit, retiring as Lt. Commander.

He started his legal career before receiving his law license, trying and winning 10 cases while a law student. Upon graduation, he worked for the Austin firm of Long, Maroney and Aronson and then moved to Dallas, a long time dream of his. He worked for the Texas & Pacific Railroad Company in their legal department. He then was a partner in the firm Touchstone, Bernays and Johnston. In 1978, he formed the firm of Cowles, Sorrells, Patterson and Thompson n/k/a Cowles and Thompson, P.C. During his legal career, he tried over 600 cases in both State and Federal courts. He was admitted to practice in the United States Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, all Texas Federal District Courts, all Texas State courts and the Court of Military Appeals. He was a member of the Patrick E. Higgenbotham American Inn of Court, Master Emeritus.

Jim was well regarded by both sides of the bar. It was well known in the legal community that his word was his bond. He was a champion for his clients but always treated opposing counsel, opposing parties and the courts with courtesy and respect. During his career, he received numerous awards and honors, many voted on by his peers, both plaintiff and defense side of the bar. Some of his awards include being named one of the 25 greatest Texas lawyers for the past quarter century, one of the 50 Lions of the Texas Bar, Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Dallas Bar Association and the Justinian award --- an award for professional excellence. He carried the coveted AV rating (the highest) by Martindale Hubbell, an acknowledgement by his peers of his skills and ethics. He has been named by D Magazine as one of the best lawyers in Dallas every year since its inception, including being named to its inaugural Best: Lawyers 2022 Hall of Fame. He was the lawyer's lawyer as demonstrated by being named one of the top 7 lawyers to go to in Texas for legal malpractice defense. He was truly respected in the law.

He and his wife were instrumental in the establishment of Lovers Lane Methodist Church. He held every laity position in the church, including Chairman of the Administrative Board. Using his legal talents, he taught a Sunday School class where they did a mock trial of Martin Luther. Martin Luther was acquitted, of course. He is currently a member of Spring Valley United Methodist Church.

He remained true to his West Texas roots. If there was a job to be done, no matter how big or small, he would take it on. It was not uncommon for members of the law firm to come upon a man on his hands and knees cleaning spots in the carpet. That man would turn out to be turn out to be the senior partner, Jim Cowles. True to his humble beginnings, he loved driving his Chevrolet pick-up truck to work and to trials listening to the Sons of the Pioneers.

Jim leaves an incredible legacy, both professionally and personally. He was one of the best trial lawyers in the state - fearless, tenacious and able to relate to juries. He taught and mentored hundreds of young lawyers, many of whom became great lawyers themselves. He worked hard, kidded around and was loyal and protective of people at all levels. He will be dearly missed by all those whose lives he touched: Jim E. Cowles exemplified the word "Texan".

The family would like to express gratitude to Phannie Kapimimpanga, Estherlyn Minkah and Frankie Johnson for the loving, tender care they gave Jim during his illness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am Monday, June 20, at Spring Valley United Methodist Church, 7700 Spring Valley Road, Dallas. A private burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jim's name to Veterans of Foreign Wars, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Sparkman-Hillcrest.com for the Cowles family.