James Everett Cowart, 85, of Olton, died Sunday, October 27, 2013, in Lubbock. Services will be at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, October 30, 2013, at the First Baptist Church in Olton with Brother David Azam and Brother Kyle Streun officiating. Interment will follow at Olton Cemetery under the direction of Ramage Funeral Directors.

James Cowart, a pioneer descendant of Lamb County, was a lifelong resident of Olton. During that time, he was involved in many activities of the entire community. J was recognized as being a strong "family man" and raised and guided his family to
be responsible citizens and have proper respect for God and country. He was proud of his family and supported them in any way he could.

Known as a "master carpenter," James designed, created, built, and repaired items for many area residents - from furniture, to houses, to cedar trunks, and grandfather clocks. Also known as the area's fence charger repairman, he was renowned as the ultimate "fix-it" man. When something was broken, many people's response has been, "Don't worry, J can fix it!"

J was very community minded throughout the years. He always wanted the very best for the Olton community. Because of this, he led the Citizens for a Clean Community
effort to keep Olton free from alcohol sales. He was very involved in the creation and
direction of the Runningwater Draw Care Center. From providing men's haircuts, serving on the board of directors for many years, visiting and caring for residents, and providing financial support, J was always a strong supporter of the Care Center.

James Cowart, an Olton historian, preserved and donated many items to the Olton Sandcrawl Museum. He felt that for us to have a full appreciation for what we currently have and where we came from, we must have a good understanding and knowledge of our history. He donated refurbished antique stoves, tools and photos and was always willing to share his memories with anyone interested in listening.

Cowart was an area landowner and farmed many years in Lamb County. Being a board member of Olton Coop Gin and Olton Grain Coop throughout the years, J strived to
develop better markets for the farmers of this area. Both of these businesses are vital to
the economic health of the Olton community.

J was known for his outgoing personality and the fact that he never met a stranger was recognized by all. His trademark laughter and sense of humor filled the room wherever he went. He shared his many talents and skills with the community. Boldness in standing for what is right was one of his strong suits. Always having a love for trees, J donated the blue spruce tree at the Olton Post
Office, donated trees to the Olton City Park and has shared his knowledge of how to properly care for these trees.

Being a lifelong sports fan, J supported Olton Mustangs and Fillies athletics throughout the years. He followed his children,
grandchildren, and even his great-grandchildren to events across the state of Texas, the entire USA, and even Germany. He was always
proud of the teams from Olton and especially his grandkids.

J's generosity has been recognized in Olton throughout the years. Whether giving financially or of his time, he was always willing to share his resources. During times of illness or death of almost anyone in the community, J consistently provided visits and emotional support to affected families.

A lifelong member of Olton First Baptist Church, J served as Deacon, Sunday School Director for 30 years, long time Sunday School Teacher, and member/leader of
many committees.

Recognitions in Olton include: 2006 Sandhills Parade Marshall and 2012 Citizen Through the Years.

Cowart was preceded in death by his parents Lloyd and Stella Cowart, his wife of 63 years, Claira Ruth, and two sisters, Helen Hipp and Thelma Long.

He is survived by his daughter, Barbara Turner and her husband, Bobby of Olton, son, Barry Cowart and his wife, JoEllen of
Muleshoe, and daughter, Melanie Hoskins and her husband, Ken of Olton, and a sister Hazel Price of West Point, California. Grandchildren are Cari Garcia, Kristi Flusche, John Bryan Cowart, Robin Cowart, Jamie Kristinek, LCpl. Joel Cowart, Brandon Hoskins and Amber Williams. Great grandchildren are Caitlin McIntire, Brittney Flusche, Kylie McIntire, Lindsey Flusche, AJ Garcia, Rylee Kristinek, and Cooper Kristinek.

Memorials may be made to the Runningwater Draw Care Center P.O. Box 409 Olton, TX 79064.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, October 29, 2013.