Beth Marie Lowry

Beth Marie Miller Lowry passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on July 30, 2020. Beth was the daughter of Marvin and Bertha Halling Miller and was the oldest of their four children: Beth, Emerson (Buzz), Joyce, and Shirley. She was born on June 6, 1922, in Parker, Idaho. She is preceded in death by her husband Fred Leonard Lowry, whom she married on May 30, 1945. in the Salt Lake Temple. She is survived by their five children and their spouses: Brion and JoAnn Lowry, Tonya and Brad Hunt, Tamara and Lesley Peterson, David and Kristine Lowry, and Michael (Mick) and Liza Lowry. She is the beloved grandma of 20 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. 

Throughout her life, Beth was committed to learning and teaching. After graduating high school, she earned a degree from Rick’s College (now BYU-Idaho) and immediately began teaching ~ and would continue to teach her entire life. She would later earn a second degree from Boise State University. After retiring from teaching elementary school ~ having taught in Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska ~ she earned a third degree, this one in art, from the University of Alaska Southeast. This led to her teaching art at the Senior Center in Juneau, Alaska. Her intelligence, patience, and kindness as a teacher left a lasting impression on her students in all disciplines.

Beth’s art students were often inspired by their teacher’s own paintings, which were sold at galleries in Juneau. Much of Beth’s art depicted Southeast Alaska’s natural beauty, which had brought her so much joy. She was not only a gifted artist but also a skilled seamstress, making beautiful suits and elegant gowns for her clients and children. In addition to painting and sewing, Beth enjoyed playing the piano, exploring the outdoors, and caring for her dogs and horses.

Most importantly, Beth was a loving sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her remarkable sense of humor and adventurous spirit have enriched the lives of all those around her. And, for generations to come, Beth will continue to serve as a model of strength and kindness.