Norma Jean Dowell

Norma Jean (Wilson) Dowell, White House, Tennessee, went home on August 27, 2023. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Dean Dowell, Sr.; parents, Harrison and Bonnie Wilson; siblings, Frances (Melvin) Crutcher, Charles (Dolores) Wilson, Peggy (Bobby) Mayo, Jerry (Carole) Wilson, Bonnie (Raymond) Elliott; and first husband, Melvin Earls. She is survived by her children, Terri (Wayne) McNeese, Ronnie (Lisa) Earls, Dino (Robin) Earls, and Dean Dowell, eleven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Norma Jean loved growing up in North Nashville with her family and close relatives. She had many jobs over her career, such as waitressing, factory work, and her last position with Saint Thomas Hospital in housekeeping. Norma Jean's true calling was that of a caregiver.

Some people have an official calling to care for others. Others do it without formal training or the need for recognition. She cared for her mother during her illness until her death. After her death, she moved her father in and cared for him for the next 24 years. In her final days, that caregiving was extended to family members, including her uncle, sister-in-law, and mother-in-law. Her most prominent act of caregiving was for her husband. He was in an accident that left him in the hospital for over four months. She never left the hospital for the first 28 days and then continued to care for him for the next seven years, meeting his every need.

In addition to being a great caregiver, she was the best Mama anyone could ask for. Her children dealt with many struggles, from birth defects to unexpected illnesses and accidents. She was right by their side each time, worrying like a mama should but also being their biggest cheerleader, ready to take on the world in their defense. That love continued to her grandchildren, who called her Nanny. She helped raise them and care for them. Nothing made her smile more than a newborn baby or making a child laugh. She enjoyed a long life where she held her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was a true blessing in their lives.

Family gatherings and cooking were a true passion. A house full of family on the holidays eating her homemade chicken and dumplings and cornbread dressing filled her heart with love. Picking out the perfect gift at Christmas was also important to her. She liked to give her kids and grandkids something they wanted, not just another present. Sometimes, the gifts were bought or even homemade, but they always came from the heart.

Norma's final days were riddled with dementia, but she never lost her sense of humor or sense of family. It could be seen in her love of a strawberry Frappuccino or her squinted-up nose face to tell them she was okay.

Some people are put on this earth to be adventurous, exploring souls, and others to seek fame and fortune. But people like Norma Jean Dowell were sent here to work quietly and lovingly behind the scenes to build the foundation others can stand on to pursue their dreams. In the end, her family knows she was met and welcomed into the arms of Jesus, surrounded by the family she loves, and once again knows by name.

Norma Jean's family would like to thank all of her extended family and friends who have provided support during this time. Also, the staff of Skyline Hospital, NHC Sumner Place, and American House Senior Living for her daily care and love.

A Gathering of Family and Friends for Norma will be held Wednesday, August 30, 2023 from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37204. As well as, Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 10:00 am.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Woodlawn-Roesch-PattonFH.com for the Dowell family.