Russell Southwick Jr.

R. Loren Southwick, Jr., passed away peacefully surrounded by the family he cherished. Born in Tampa to Mary and Russell Southwick, Loren lived a life full of curiosity, laughter, and love.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Bonnie Navin Southwick; his sons, Scott Loren Southwick (Richelle) of Savannah and Stephen Carter Southwick (Pam) of Cumming; his stepchildren, Jessica Myers Rodbell (Andrew) of Atlanta and Josh Matthew Myers (Susanne) of Vestavia Hills; seven adoring grandchildren; his siblings Dale Southwick (Fran), Paul Southwick (Debbie), and Mary Lynn Spano; and a wide circle of dear friends, including the lifelong friendships he shared with his brothers from Jesuit High School.

A graduate of University of South Florida, he pledged Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Loren also studied at Georgia Institute of Technology and pursued graduate work at Georgia State University. Bright and driven, he built a distinguished career in sales and marketing within the computer and data communications industries, beginning with General Electric and continuing with leadership roles at BellSouth Advanced Networks, Sprint Corporation, and Level 3 Communications.

Loren’s talents stretched far beyond school and the corporate world. A gifted athlete, he ran cross country at Georgia Tech and played baseball for the Chattanooga Lookouts. In his younger years, he worked as a cub reporter for the Tampa Tribune, performed with a traveling improv troupe, and even hosted a small-market radio show in Marietta. He was also a skilled photographer, a writer of haiku, and a voracious reader with a razor-sharp wit and unforgettable laugh.

In retirement, Loren found special joy coaching girls’ softball at St. Pius X High School for over a decade, rarely missing a game and always cheering from the heart. He loved sharing a fine glass of wine with family and friends, and he faithfully followed the Atlanta Braves, March Madness, and Georgia Tech football and basketball each season.

Loren lived fully, loved deeply, and laughed often. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. Loren is preceded in death by his Parents, and his brother Mark (Lindy) Southwick and Rick (Lisa) Southwick. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation.