James “Jim” Towler went to be with the Lord on Friday, September 11, 2026, in Slidell, Louisiana. He was born in Smackover, Arkansas, on September 10, 1940, to the late Jesse and Lois Cheek Towler.

Jim was the beloved husband of the late Rita Saladino Towler, with whom he shared 48 years of marriage. He was the loving father of Keith Towler (Lisa DiMarco), Laura T. Gereighty, and Lois T. Steele (Emmett); grandfather of Jessica Gereighty (Ben); and great-grandfather of Cailey Williams and Wrigley McNaughton.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Towler Brown, and his brothers, Charles Towler and Perry Towler. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as many dear friends whose lives he touched throughout the years.

Jim was a resident of the Slidell area for 30 years and of Carriere, Mississippi, for the past 25 years. He began his career in retail management with Western Auto, working at several locations throughout the New Orleans area. He later joined Bunny Bread and Reising’s French Bread bakeries in New Orleans, where he served as accounting and finance manager.

Jim and Rita eventually became business owners, operating The Regency banquet and reception facility and Fancies Unlimited Catering in Slidell. Through their businesses and community involvement, they became well known for their hospitality and commitment to serving others.

Jim was deeply devoted to his community. As a past president of the Marrero Lions Club, he was instrumental in petitioning the Louisiana State Legislature for the creation of Jean Lafitte National Park. In more recent years, he was an active member of the Slidell Noon Lions Club. He also served as the first president of the Board of Directors for the Boys’ Club–Metro New Orleans, Southeast Louisiana.

In 2003, Jim helped lead the organization Save Our Slidell Memorial Hospital, working alongside others in the community to advocate for the preservation of the community owned and operated hospital.

One of Jim’s greatest passions was barbecue. He enjoyed competing in local and regional barbecue competitions and later became a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society judge. He also used his love of barbecue to support others, frequently helping raise funds for charities and community organizations through barbecue events.

Jim also devoted his time and talents to public service. In 2008, he served as campaign manager for David Allison’s initial election as Sheriff of Pearl River County, Mississippi, and continued in that role through three consecutive re-election campaigns.

Jim was a faithful member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Slidell. His faith, generous spirit, sense of humor, love of family, and commitment to his community will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend funeral services at HONAKER FUNERAL HOME, 1751 GAUSE BOULEVARD WEST, Slidell, Louisiana, located in Forest Lawn Cemetery, on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be held privately at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Slidell Noon Lions Club, P.O. Box 1953, Slidell, LA 70459.

Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA.