Byron Lee Sowell

Byron Lee Sowell, age 75, of San Augustine, TX, passed away Friday, December 11, 2020, in his home.  He was born on June 7, 1945, to Claudie B. And Dorothy L. Sowell in San Augustine, TX. 

He graduated from Broaddus High School in 1963 and married his high school sweetheart Beverly Ann Evett on October 10, 1964.  At that time, they moved to Houston for work.  He was drafted into the US Army in November 1966.  Upon completion of his tour in Vietnam in 1968, they moved back to Houston, TX, where he was a Purchasing Agent for a pipe company.   In March 1990, they moved back to San Augustine, TX, where he owned/operated a poultry farm for Pilgrim’s Pride.   He was a hard worker; his “spare” time was spent working his cattle, bailing hay, and building fences.  After allegedly retiring, he could be seen driving his Kubota around the farms overseeing the many projects that are required to maintain the properties.  Each morning, he held a ‘safety meeting’ with his son, Doug, which included drinking coffee, telling stories, and making sure everyone knew he was in charge.  In his free time, he liked to play dominoes, go catfishing, and plan the annual squirrel camp with his buddies.  He was especially fond of a good meal that was ‘hand-delivered’ to his recliner and homemade ice cream.   On Sunday afternoons, you would find him in his recliner watching the Dallas Cowboys, cheering them on or cursing them, depending upon how the season was going.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 56 years, Beverly Ann Sowell of San Augustine; his daughter, Andrea “Bones” Crutcher and husband Rodney of League City; his sons,  Doug “Big D” Sowell and wife Jodie of San Augustine, and Stephen “Toad” Sowell of McKinney; grandchildren, Jennifer “Doodlebritches” Crutcher of Pearland, Benjamin “Big Man” Sowell and wife Morgan of Travis Air Force Base, CA, and Mitchell “Stitch” Sowell of San Augustine, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Claudie and Dorothy Sowell, and brothers, Jerrel Wayne Sowell,  Glynn Sowell, and Lynn Sowell.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, December 14, from 5 pm-7 pm at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, TX.  Graveside service will be held Tuesday, December 15, at 11 am at the Sowell Cemetery with Pastor Hugh Mixon officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the East Texas Food Bank or the Sowell Cemetery Fund.

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