Thomas Julian Motes, aged 67, passed away peacefully in Mobile, AL on July 10, 2024. Born in Sylacauga on May 25, 1957 to parents, Eva and Fay Motes, Julian graduated from Sylacauga High School before continuing his education at Auburn University (Class of 1980) and The University of Alabama School of Law (Class of 1983).
Following his graduation from law school, Julian was a law clerk for Alabama Supreme Court Justice C.C. "Bo" Torbert, Jr. until 1984. He then relocated to Mobile to begin a rewarding career in the practice of law with the firm that became Dentons Sirote, a career that spanned from 1984 until his retirement in 2022. A member of the Mobile Bar Association and Alabama Bar Association, he was admitted to practice in the U.S. Supreme Court as well as all state and federal courts in Alabama. Julian was a member of the Paul W. Brock American Inn of Court, serving as President in 2017, and was awarded an AV Preeminent Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating and was recognized as a "Best Lawyer" in America.
Although known in legal circles for his keen knowledge and love of the law, his passion for the law was surpassed by his zeal for Auburn University sports, especially football. Other than all things Auburn, Julian enjoyed fishing and bird watching, especially while turkey hunting. Julian was a Christian who showed his love of God through actions, more so than words. He actively served in the community and drove the church bus on Sunday mornings. After retirement Julian was finally able to dedicate more time to St. Mark Methodist Church. He served as Chairman of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, board member of the Early Learning Center, member of the Finance Committee and the Leadership Board. Julian was most passionate about his position as the church's "You Tube certified" maintenance man. It should be noted that this was the position he was least qualified for, yet the one for which he was most loved and appreciated.
Julian was preceded in death by his parents, Fay and Eva Motes, his brother, Miles Motes, and his brother-in-law, Dr. Stacey Headley.
Julian is survived by his wife, Cathy McCloud Motes, son, Thomas Julian Motes, Jr. both of Mobile, daughter, Katie Motes, and sister, Margaret Mugg (David) of Birmingham, brother David Motes of Houston, TX and sister, Carol Motes Headley of Memphis, TN, and sister-in-law Lisa Orrell of Mobile as well as nephews Bryan Mugg (Maggie) Fairhope, AL and Arthur Headley, Kansas City, MO. and nieces Anna Mugg Jones (Andy) Birmingham and Shelby Headley Luethke (Michael) Knoxville, TN.
Pallbearers are David Motes, David Mugg, Bryan Mugg, Arthur Headley, David Fesperman, and David Peeler. Honorary pallbearers are members of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class.
May 25, 1957 — July 10, 2024
The funeral will be held at noon on Wednesday, July 17 at St. Mark Methodist Church in Mobile with The Rev. Tara Chamblee and The Rev. Brian Miller officiating. Interment will follow at Mobile Memorial Gardens.
