Jack Lowe Sr.'s father, John Burford Lowe, was a traveling insurance salesman who often left his wife, Florence, and their infant son behind while travelling. In 1913 or 1914, J.B. Lowe left his wife and baby in New Orleans. Needing money, Mrs. Florence Lowe spoke to the owner of a grocery store and he agreed to give her enough money for milk and food in exchange for her working at his store. However, she later fell too sick to work and earn money. The grocer got in touch with Mrs. Lowe's mother who moved Mrs. Lowe and baby to Farmerville, Louisiana.