Obituary of James Sowell

James Sowell, 84, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2022 surrounded by his loving family who will honor and cherish his memory for the rest of their lives. Jim was born to parents Leroy Sowell and Lena Sowell (Malone) both of Brooklyn, New York on May 23, 1938. He is survived by his wife and the love of his life for 66 years, Margaret, and their three children, Brian Sowell of Granby, Debra Gaj of Granby and Linda Mclean of Glastonbury, CT. He will also be remembered by 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and his brother Roy Sowell of Boca Raton, Fl., all of whom will miss having him in their lives immensely. Jim, known as Poppy by those who loved him, lived life with gusto and never shied away from a challenge. He was a Korean War Veteran serving in the Navy on the aircraft carrier Coral Sea CV-43. He spent his life after military duty in the transportation industry starting as a truck driver, salesman, and finally entrepreneur starting his own business where he employed his whole family at some time or another. Many organizations benefited from his willingness to be helpful and serve others, including: The Melha Shriners, Granby Auxiliary Police Department, Granby Planning Board and Phins Hill Manor Board of Directors. His silly jokes, heart-felt conversation, and endless love will be deeply missed. 

Calling hours will be Friday July 8th, from 8:30am to 9:30am at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home with a Funeral Mass to follow at Immaculate Heart of Mary at 10:00am. Burial will follow in West St. Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Friends of Granby Veterans c / o Select Board Office, 10B West State Street, Granby Mass or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.