When the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina finally earns federal recognition – a long-held dream that is inching closer to reality – members will temper their celebrations with the realization that one of the great champions of this cause is no longer with us.
Jimmie Lowry, who lost his battle with cancer on Sunday at age 65, was a successful engineer turned automobile dealer who gave back to his community by serving on numerous boards and commissions. I had the honor of working with him when he served as Chairman of the N.C. Commission of Indian Affairs from 1977 to 1984. Always ready to address critical and sometimes unpopular issues, he was diligent in developing and gaining support for measures that increased awareness of and services for all North Carolina tribes and organizations. He placed particular emphasis on economic development and empowerment.
Mr. Lowry also served as Chairman of the Lumbee Self-Determination Commission, which helped establish a tribal constitution. In this role, he dedicated himself to service benefitting members of his beloved tribe, notably his early and continuing efforts to achieve federal recognition.
A fitting funeral service was held that highlighted his work and his life. I hope his loved ones will find consolation in knowing that his extraordinary contributions will live on in generations of better educated, healthier and more economically successful members of North Carolina’s American Indian community.
