Joseph Flentrus Lowe Sr.

Joseph Flentrus Lowe, Sr. (“Big Joe”) was born on April 18, 1947 in St. Louis, MO. Joe was the oldest of 5 children born to Isaac Lowe and Corine Jemison. Both of his parents, sister (Rita), brother (Gerald), and daughter (Deidra) preceded him in death. Joseph was educated in the St. Louis Public School system. He attended Patrick Henry Elementary School. He then went on to attend school in Mississippi through 10th grade. While there he was well-known for roller skating through the streets of Mississippi. Upon his return to St. Louis, he attended Central High School and O’Fallon Technical School. Joe knew early on he wanted to serve in the military. At 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He was stationed in Key West, Florida. While in the Navy, Joseph was the company honor man for his squadron and received the National Defense service medal. Joseph took his role as being the oldest in the family seriously, so much so that he influenced his younger brothers to join the military as well. After bootcamp, Joseph returned to St.Louis to marry the love of his life, Anna Ferguson, on August 29, 1964. They met at the age of 12 but he knew from the start that she was the one. They were married at the age of 17 and were together for 62 years. To this union was born 5 children: Joseph Jr, Deidra, LaDonna, Nicole, and Flentrus. After leaving the Navy, Joseph became employed with the United States Postal Service. Joe enjoyed being a mail carrier and interacting with a variety of people on his routes. He retired after 32 years of service. Joe was pretty much a homebody because he protected his privacy. He took great pride in providing for and taking care of his family. Joe was an avid reader. One of his favorite things to read was the Reader’s Digest. He also frequently read the newspaper and Time magazine to stay current with politics and the national news. He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Anna; 4 loving children: Joseph Jr., LaDonna (James), Nicole, and Flentrus; 15 grandchildren: Kendra, Kenneth, Derek, James Jr., Mercedes, Cassandra, Larissa, Kidd, William, Miles, Ana, Aaliyah, Annalisia, and Joseph Michael; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 siblings: Isaac (Vernice) and Joyce Ann; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Joseph Flentrus Lowe Sr.

April 18, 1947 - May 19, 2024