Brenda Dowell

Brenda Joyce (Carter) Dowell, 78, went home to be with the Lord on October 7, 2025 in Lexington, South Carolina. Born on March 14, 1947 in Greensboro, North Carolina, Brenda lived a life marked by faith, love, living life, and laughter.

She was the daughter of Charles Baker Carter and Inez Cox Carter. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Carolyn C. Kinney, and brother Gary W. Carter. She is survived by her husband of 56 years David T. Dowell, her sister Jewel C. Rainey, and her three daughters and sons-in-law, Beth Orr (Scott), Dana Bailey (Larry), and Jennifer Martin (Ben).

Brenda grew up in Greensboro, graduated from Grimsley High School, and worked at Chamberlain Manufacturing where she met David. They married in 1969 and began a lifelong partnership built on love, faith, and commitment. Brenda and David’s journey together took them from North Carolina to Texas, and ultimately to South Carolina. There, she created special bonds with her work and church friends that have lasted a lifetime. Brenda spent her life making connections, building friendships, and spreading love and laughter.

Whether she and David were traveling to Texas or Kentucky, enjoying vacations at the beach, exploring new places, relaxing on a cruise, or taking a much-needed trip to the casino, Brenda embraced every moment filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. She cherished socializing and volunteering with her beloved church friends and never missed a chance to catch up with old friends over lunch or on the phone. Her warmth and joyful spirit left an impression on everyone she met.

"Grams" is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Tyler Orr (Alex), Mason Orr (Ferne), Bailey Orr, Ashley Martin, Alexandra Martin, Christian Martin, Layne Bailey, Averie Bailey, and the apple of her eye, great-grandbaby Juniper “Juni” Orr.

Brenda’s legacy is one of love—for life, for her family and friends, and for her faith in God. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her through the stories shared, the laughter and fun that came with her, and the love she so generously gave to everyone around her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A memorial service for Brenda will be held Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Dunbar Funeral Home - Dutch Fork Chapel, 7600 Woodrow St, Irmo, South Carolina 29063, followed by a visitation following service.