William Billy McDowell

He was born May 20, 1931 in Peoria to Joe and Addie McDowell. He married C. Diane Gaiter June 20, 1992 in Peoria. She survives along with four daughters: Brenda (Lawrence) Patterson of Lexington, KY, Deanna McDowell of Peoria, Lynzi Gaiter of Peoria, Barbara Pointer of Peoria, one son, William (Ruby) Riley of Peoria, one step-son, Lendsy Gaiter of Peoria, twenty grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, two sisters Laverne Grant of Pasadena, CA, Margaret Shelby of Atlanta, GA, and one brother, Eugene (Marilyn) McDowell of Chicago.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Michael Smith, one step-daughter, Ramyka Gaiter, five brothers and two sisters.

Billy worked for Caterpillar, Inc. for 23 years retiring in 1993. He was a member of the Local UAW 974, and was a United States Army Veteran. He was a good father, loving husband and a loyal friend. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Funeral services will be Friday Dec. 10, 2010 at 11 a.m. at New Cornerstone Baptist Church in Peoria. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services on Friday at the Church. Cremation rites will be accorded following the services. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria is in charge of arrangements.

Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in West Peoria at a later date.

Please view Billy’s life story at www.Davison-Fulton.com