Tragic Loss in Scandia: Remembering James “Jimmy” Raymond Lowe Jr.

Tragic Loss in Scandia: Remembering James “Jimmy” Raymond Lowe Jr.

SCANDIA, Kansas — June 7, 2025 — The tight-knit community of Scandia is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of James Raymond Lowe Jr., affectionately known as “Jimmy,” a 23-year-old resident of Lindstrom, Minnesota. Jimmy died in a devastating car accident on Friday, June 6, 2025, resulting from distracted driving.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the accident occurred on U.S. Highway 36 near Scandia. Jimmy was driving eastbound when he became distracted—details of the exact nature of the distraction have not been released—and lost control of his vehicle. The car veered off the road and struck a tree, causing fatal injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Jimmy was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the incident was not injured. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The Kansas Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Jimmy was a vibrant young man with a passion for life and a deep love for his family and friends. He was known for his infectious smile, kind heart, and willingness to help others. Family members describe him as a dedicated son, brother, and friend who always put others before himself.

In his free time, Jimmy enjoyed outdoor activities, music, and spending time with his loved ones. He had recently moved to Kansas to pursue new opportunities and was excited about the future. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of distracted driving. The Kansas Highway Patrol urges all drivers to remain focused on the road and avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or other activities that can divert attention from driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents and fatalities on the road.

Law enforcement officials are reminding drivers to stay alert and make safety their top priority. “No text, call, or notification is worth a life,” said a spokesperson for the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The community of Scandia has rallied around Jimmy’s family during this difficult time. A memorial fund has been established to assist with funeral expenses and to support initiatives promoting road safety and distracted driving awareness.

“Jimmy was a light in our community,” said a local resident. “His loss is felt deeply by all of us. We are committed to honoring his memory by working together to make our roads safer for everyone.”

Funeral services for James Raymond Lowe Jr. will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Scandia. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will take place afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the James Raymond Lowe Jr. Memorial Fund, which will support road safety education and youth programs in the community.

Jimmy’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of staying vigilant behind the wheel. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the lessons learned from this tragic event.

This is a developing story. Further details will be provided as they become available.