In loving memory of Judge James Marion Carlow, born on August 7, 1944, in Maud, Texas, and peacefully departed this life on December 21, 2025 at his home. Judge was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years Nancy Faye Carlow, his parents, James C. Carlow and Olga Carlow, and granddaughter Gracyn Carlow.
Judge is survived by his two sons and daughters-in-law, Brad and Ashley Carlow of Texarkana, and Blake and Melinda Carlow of New Boston, TX. He leaves 6 grandchildren: Taylor Carlow and his wife Taylor, Shelby Stephens and her husband Caleb, Malori Carlow-Miramontes and her husband Jacob Miramontes, Triston Carlow and his wife Sarah, Briley Barron, Mason Carlow, and great-grandchildren, Julia Carlow, Banks Stephens, Noah Carlow, Poppy Faye Miramontes, and another on the way, Willow Carlow.
Judge, a long-time dairyman and cattleman, gained his early experience in Bowie County through a paper route and purchasing a Ford tractor at the tender age of 13.
He continued to work for several locals in the Maud area, including growing and harvesting his own cucumbers for the pickle factory in Texarkana. He continued to transport hay from Kansas and Oklahoma to Texas, forging an enduring connection with the local Steptoe Family of San Augustine, Texas.
His entrepreneurial journey in our community, which began from the ground up, has had a lasting impact on the Bowie County community. He laid the foundation for his family’s businesses to his two sons, Brad and Blake.
Beginning his adult career of being an agricultural lobbyist in Washington, D.C., first ran for Bowie County Judge in 1986. His interest in lobbying and political action was sparked by his work on behalf of dairy farmers. Over the course of his 30-year tenure, Judge Carlow made significant contributions to his beloved county. He played a key role in developing Tex-America and the I-69 Project, and he also exerted considerable influence in the Red River Army Depot.
During the COVID pandemic, Judge and his wife Nancy started a delightful tradition every evening at 5:00. They would gather for a happy hour, cherishing moments of meaningful conversation and quality time together. This simple routine blossomed into a beautiful tradition where they would select someone weekly to receive flowers “just because.” Nancy and Marion’s thoughtfulness and desire to bring smiles to others reflected their selfless and caring nature. They both consistently encouraged others to do the right thing with love.
Above all, Judge cherished his family. He cherished creating loving memories with his wife, Nancy, and two sons.
But above all, he cherished being called “Granddaddy.” He adored his children and grandchildren, sharing his stories and imparting the values of a good life. His enduring influence on his peers, his family, and the people he knew will forever be cherished. May he rest in eternal peace.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church - New Boston, TX.
Burial will be at Center Ridge Cemetery in Maud, TX.
Visitation will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025 from 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. at Chapelwood Funeral Home - Nash, TX.
