Paula Plank Lowrey

Paula Ver Planck Lowrey, a remarkable soul who touched the lives of many, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on August 24, 1957, in Houston, Texas, Paula was the cherished daughter of Henry Ver Planck and Elizabeth Dempsey Planck. Her vibrant spirit and gentle kindness will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Paula's life was marked by an unyielding commitment to education and service. She dedicated herself to lifelong learning, achieving a Doctor of Occupational Therapy in 2016 from the University of Saint Augustine, Florida. Her academic journey also included a Master's of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas, and an Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant Bachelor of Arts from San Jacinto College South in Houston, Texas. Paula's academic accomplishments were recognized through numerous accolades, including serving as President of the PI Theta Epsilon Occupational Therapy Honor Society, being on the Dean’s List at Texas Woman’s University, and being honored in the National Dean’s List and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. Paula's professional life was a testament to her dedication and passion. From 1977 to 1995, she was the President and CEO of Catering By Paula, where she catered to the corporate aircraft world, bringing her signature blend of creativity and meticulous attention to detail. Her career took a meaningful turn in 1999 when she embraced her calling as an occupational therapist, a role she fulfilled with compassion and excellence until 2023. Paula's influence extended to academia, where she served in various roles, including assistant professor, fieldwork coordinator, and director at esteemed institutions such as the University of South Alabama, University of St. Augustine, and Nova Southeastern University. Throughout her life, Paula was a devoted member of the Foundry Methodist Church on Jones Road in Houston, where she found spiritual nourishment and community for over 25 years. Her love for animals, especially horses, was well-known, and she found joy in raising and racing them in her earlier years. Travel was another of Paula's passions, and she cherished the adventures she shared with her son David and dear friends. Paula's warmth and kindness were the hallmarks of her personality. She had an innate ability to touch the hearts of those around her, from her family and friends to the countless patients and students she inspired. Her legacy is one of love, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of helping others achieve their potential. Paula is survived by her two beloved sons, David Walker Lowrey and Brandon Michael Lowrey, who were the pride and joy of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and unwavering love that will continue to guide and inspire her family and all who knew her. In honoring Paula's memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life that made a profound difference in the world. May her spirit continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return.