William "Bill" Ray McDowell

William Ray “Bill” McDowell, 90, of Birmingham, AL, passed away on Tuesday, March 23, 2021. A private crypt side service will be held on Monday, March, 29, 2021, at Crestwood Cemetery in Gadsden, AL. Collier-Butler Funeral and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. McDowell was a graduate of Etowah High School class of 1948 and then attended the University of Alabama Gadsden Center. Bill served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Gadsden in 1992. Bill was a Mason and a member of North Shelby Baptist Church. Mr. McDowell was known for his kindness and his impeccable work ethic and character. He was ready to meet his Savior.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, William Newton and Faynell Bryant McDowell; sister, Nancy Fay McDowell; childhood sweetheart and wife of 52 years, Peggy Bailey McDowell; and stepson, David Tabor King.

Mr. McDowell is survived by his wife of 14 years, Barbara King McDowell; sons, John William McDowell (Melanie), and Howard Bruce King (Patti); daughters, Melinda McDowell Calderini, and Carol King Beckham (Ron); beloved granddaughters, Meg McDowell Atkinson (Nick), Mary Katherine Calderini; grandson, Ross Hayley Beckham (Meaghan); great-granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth (Libby) Ray; sister, Margaret Ann McDowell Driskell; sister-in-law, Linda Bailey Green (Ray); and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express a special thanks to Affinity Hospice and wonderful nurse, Katelyn. The family is grateful for your prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 OR Affinity Hospice, 216 Aquarius Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209.