Anyone who had the briefest conversation with Derrol would soon know that he was one of five boys from a Texas farming and ranching family. Those years on the rice farm forged a strong work ethic, perseverance, and deep faith that would sustain him through his life. Despite decades of significant health challenges, Derrol pursued life fully and without complaint or self-pity. The apostle John wrote, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.” Anyone who spent time with Derrol Lowery knew that He loved the Lord and he loved them. He was characterized by a deep love for people, exceptional kindness, and joy that spilled over to those around him.
During his years at Cy-Fair High School, Derrol was most involved in athletics and rodeo. He married Margaret in 1954 and together they raised four children. He was a devoted and sacrificial father. His kids used to call him “The Good Samaritan” because he would stop to offer aid to anyone broken down on the side of the road or in any other distress. As much as he loved his children, he had a special place in his heart for his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Derrol was a life-long learner. He loved deer hunting with his buddies, learning to fly airplanes, taking on a new career mid-life, playing the saxophone, and figuring out how to use his iphone. He loved being with God’s people, and served the church in various capacities through the years, including as a deacon, choir member, and orchestra member. Though a Texan to the bone, Derrol embraced his last 16 years in Alabama and quickly found a church to serve and people to love.
Derrol was preceded in death by his wife of almost 67 years, Margaret; his son, Michael; his parents; his granddaughter, Melissa; and his brothers, Jimmy and Billie.
He is survived by: his twin brother, Gerald (Lynita); brother, Brian; daughter, Cindy and her husband Chris De La Rosa; daughter, Alicia and her husband Tony Palmer; daughter, Kathy and her husband Chuck Finster; grandchildren George Derrol Ward (Heather), Elizabeth Evans (Ryan), Nathan Palmer (Tiana), Julie Draime (Dustin), Jessica Kakish (Danny), Scott Finster (Chelsea), Mark Finster, and Rebecca Finster; 20 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Fellowship Baptist Church on Saturday, August 13. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, followed by a service at 11:00 am. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com.
