Former state representative Jim Fowler
James D. (Jim) Fowler, age 86, left his earthly home for his heavenly home on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020, surrounded by his family.
He was born June 11, 1934, in Saline County, to Terry and Helen (Jones) Fowler of Galatia. He graduated from Galatia High School with the Class of 1952. Following high school, he attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. He left SIU to join the U.S. Navy, and he proudly served his country for four years.
After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he enrolled in the Illinois State Police Academy in Springfield. He spent 28 years serving the people of southern Illinois. In January 1985, he retired from the ISP and became the Saline County Clerk and Recorder. After serving 14 years in that capacity, he was elected to two consecutive terms in the Illinois Legislature and served as state representative for the people of the 118th district for four years. His working career spanned 46 years of public service to the people of southern Illinois until his final retirement in January 2003.
On Nov. 25, 1956, he married Mable (Lane) Fowler, and they recently celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. They have two daughters, Cindy (Kevin) Porter and Beth (Wes) Evans.
They also have five grandchildren, Adam (Lori) Porter, Daniel Porter, Megan (John) Lemonds, J.D. (Tarah) Evans and Rachel Evans. In addition, they have 13 great-grandchildren: Landon and Addy Beth Porter; Jolee, Avree and Kaydee Porter; Emma and Judah Lemonds; and Jaylee, Abigail, Samuel, James, Isaiah and Ethan Evans.
Jim is also survived by a sister, Sue Fowler, and a brother Melvin Fowler.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jack Fowler.
Jim accepted the Lord as his savior as a teenager. He and Mable have spent their entire marriage working faithfully side by side at First Church of God in Harrisburg. He could usually be found doing something behind the scenes and was always willing to serve on any committee or in any capacity where he was needed.
Jim also enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.
Due to the current COVID-19 situation there will be no public visitation, and a private family service will be held to celebrate Jim's life.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to one of the following: First Church of God, 1520 McHaney Road, Harrisburg, IL 62946; Residential Hospice, 4215 State Route #159, Glen Carbon, IL 62034; or to the Fortress Community. Donations may be left at the funeral home.
Jim's family would like to thank their family and friends and all those who have supported them during Jim's illness. The many acts of kindness will never be forgotten.