James W Rowzee

James William Rowzee, 87, of Newton, Mississippi passed away Wednesday May 29, 2024. A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11:00am at Bethel Baptist Church, with a visitation one hour prior to service. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
James was born on January 17, 1937, in Newton, Mississippi. James graduated from Newton High School, Mississippi State University, and served in the National Guard. After his military service, he returned to the family farm where he lived the rest of his life.
James was known as a master dairyman. His farm was considered one of the top Jersey dairy farms in the southeast United States.
James served on the board of the American Dairy Association of Mississippi from 1964-1975. He was on the board of the American Jersey Cattle Association from 1988 – 1994 and served as vice-president. He was on the board of the National All Jersey Board 1977-1986. James was awarded the Mississippi Dairy Farmer of the year in 1987.
James was on the board of the Newton County Gin Association for 24 years and president for 18 years. He was a life-long member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served as deacon & treasurer.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years Oneva Rowzee; daughter Linda Smith (Phil), son Robert Rowzee (Vonda), daughter Nelda Johnson (Paul), sister Carol Greenlee; four grandchildren Ryne Smith (Kaitlyn), Casey Donald (Kyle), Dana Brunson (Bo), & Mallory Johnson; three great-grandchildren Molly and Callie Donald, Lily Brunson.
He is preceded in death by parents Reuben and Lillie Rowzee, sister June Addy (James), brother-in-law Max Greenlee.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bethel Baptist Church. Mail donations to: Linda Thomas, 1635 Newton Calhoun Road, Newton, MS 39345.