James Daniel Nowell, 41, of Alto, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Tyler, Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 30, 2026, at Allen Funeral Home with Pastor Bruce Robinson of Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Old Palestine Cemetery.

James was born in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Marilyn and Walter Nowell on July 19, 1984. He attended school in Alto. James worked as a roughneck for Rowan Drilling Company for five years prior to a spinal injury that left him wheelchair-bound.

James was preceded in death by his uncles, Paul Higginbotham, Melvin Higginbotham, Donald Higginbotham, and Danny Higginbotham, and by his aunt, Jean Higginbotham.

James is survived by his parents, Marilyn and Walter Nowell of Alto; his brother, Samuel Nowell and wife Josey of Bullard; his sister, Devvy Grimes of Gladewater; and his sister, Raene Moore and husband Chris of Longview. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Samuel Nowell, Benjamin Nowell, Amahdrick Christopher, Zack Moore, Kyle Hess, and Joel Douglas.

Flowers may be sent to Allen Funeral Home in Alto, or memorial donations may be made in James's name to Hospice of East Texas.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Hospice of East Texas and Allen Funeral Home for their care and compassion.