Jimmy Lee McDowell passed away on March 20, 2022, at the age of 75, in his hometown of Silver Valley, North Carolina. In recent months, his battle with serious medical issues showed his courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile and encouraging words. Despite the pain, Jim remained upbeat until the end.
Jim was a caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Doneis and Minnie McDowell; wife, Lola McDowell; brother, Dones “Junior” McDowell; sister, Frances Clark; daughters, Tammy Franklin and Kathy Calloway; and grandchildren, Dustin Flippin and Wayne Franklin. He is survived by his children, Tony McDowell and Angela Norris; grandchildren, Michelle Calloway, Jennifer Trivett, Misty Noah, Christy McDowell, Jessica Calloway, Clifton Calloway, Tiffany Crabb, Carley Kersey; 21 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Donny McDowell, Tilman McDowell, Dale McDowell; and sisters, Alma Jane Welborn, Debbie McDowell, and Kay Bullins.
He was born to Doneis and Minnie McDowell on April 14, 1946. He married his wife Lola, and they raised four children together: Tammy, Kathy, Tony and Angela. He retired from Commercial Carving after working many years as a glue-reel operator.
Jim enjoyed working in his yard, fishing and spending time with his family. The simplest pleasures brought him great joy. Jim enjoyed playing cards and marbles with his family and friends. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help a neighbor in need.
Jim’s family will receive guests on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at 10:00 am at Sechrest-Davis Funeral Home in Thomasville, NC. The funeral service will be at 11:00 am, immediately following the visitation. Jim will be laid to rest beside his wife at Community Baptist Church in Silver Valley.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sechrestdavisthomasville.com for the McDowell family.
