District 8 Success Stories:

He served as press secretary for Congressman Harold Ford Sr., worked in corporate communications for FedEx, and then turned to public service. Myron taught in the Memphis City Schools, and in 1991, he won a seat on the Memphis City Council, eventually serving as Chairman five times and earning the distinction of being the second longest-serving African-American in the history of the council. He was also selected to chair the Memphis Charter Commission and, in 2009, served as Mayor Pro Tem of Memphis—stepping in during a pivotal moment for the city.

Myron’s leadership was marked by a fierce commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation. He initiated programs like gun buy-backs, pushed for the installation of red-light cameras, and led efforts to reform city government. His tenure was also marked by moments that made national headlines—like the time he greeted the Dalai Lama with a fist bump, a gesture that reflected both humility and humor, and quickly went viral. Myron’s authenticity was legendary: he never told you what you wanted to hear, but always what you needed to hear. If you listened, you found wisdom and a path to success.

His civic involvement was vast—serving on the boards of the Tennessee Municipal League, Leadership Memphis, The Memphis Zoo, Headstart Policy Council, and LeMoyne-Owen College, among many others. He was honored as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in America by the U.S. Jaycees, standing alongside legends like Elvis Presley and Orson Welles. Myron’s impact is woven into the very fabric of Memphis, and he will be remembered as one of the city’s true greats—a man whose influence reached far beyond titles and accolades.

Something I wish we could all share with Myron & Mary:

“Myron and Mary Lowery are two of the most beautiful people you will ever meet. I spent an evening with them at a Meat Me in Memphis Charity Event. Being in their company is a gift of wisdom and greatness. A reminder of a time when character and handshakes and your word meant something. I will always think of Myron as an asset our city never truly appreciated!”

A Son Steps Forward

Growing up in the shadow of such a legacy might have been daunting, but for Mickell Lowery, it was inspiration. Mickell learned early that leadership is about showing up—on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. He earned his business degree at LeMoyne-Owen College and a master’s in operations management from the University of Arkansas, blending education with a deep sense of responsibility to give back.

Mickell’s service is hands-on and heart-first. As a County Commissioner for District 8—representing Downtown, Frayser, South Memphis, North Memphis, and Central Gardens—he’s advocated for stronger schools, safer neighborhoods, and economic opportunity for all. He’s served on boards for LeMoyne-Owen College, New Memphis, and the Fire Museum, and has been a youth football coach for over a decade, mentoring kids who needed guidance and encouragement, whether or not they had family in the stands.

His work extends to after-school tutoring, youth mentorship, and neighborhood revitalization. Mickell’s leadership is visible in every corner of District 8, from new libraries and schools in Frayser to innovative programs supporting small businesses and affordable housing. He’s been recognized as one of Memphis Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 and Ebony Magazine’s Top 30 Under 30, but his greatest pride comes from seeing lives changed and futures brightened in the community he loves.

A Family Tradition of Giving Back

The Lowerys are more than public officials—they are a family devoted to the soul of Memphis. Together, Myron and Mickell have hosted the city’s Annual Prayer Breakfast for over 30 years, bringing together leaders, pastors, and neighbors to start each year with hope and unity. What began as a simple gathering has become a cherished tradition, a moment when Memphis reflects on its challenges and celebrates its triumphs as one community.

Their story is living proof that success is not just measured by titles or accolades, but by the lives touched and the doors opened for others. The Lowerys have shown that true leadership means lifting as you climb, making space for the next generation, and never forgetting where you came from.

Raising the Bar for District 8—and Beyond

As Mickell Lowery enters his final term as County Commissioner and sets his sights on the Shelby County Mayor’s office, his legacy is already woven into the fabric of District 8. He’s guided by the lessons of his father and the needs of his constituents—always striving to create a county where every child can thrive, every family can feel safe, and every business has a chance to grow.

The Lowery family’s journey is a beacon for all of Shelby County. It’s a reminder that success is not a solo act, but a community project—built on faith, hard work, and a commitment to serve. Their story challenges us all to ask: How can we raise the bar for what’s possible in our neighborhoods? How can we ensure that our own legacies will be measured not just by what we achieve, but by what we give?

A Call to Celebrate Our Success Stories

District 8 is full of remarkable people—educators, entrepreneurs, mentors, and leaders—who are redefining what it means to succeed in Memphis and Shelby County. The Lowerys’ story is just one of many, but it stands as a powerful example of how family, faith, and service can transform a community.

As we honor the Lowery legacy, let’s also look for the next generation of leaders and changemakers. If you know someone in District 8 who is raising the bar—whether in education, business, or community leadership—nominate them for our next Success Story. Together, we can celebrate the people who are building a brighter future for us all.

District 8 Success Stories: Because when one of us rises, we all rise.