James F. McDowell Sr.

Born November 28, 1947 in Martinsburg, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Theodosia McDowell.

He received his diploma at Shepherdstown High School. After graduation he enlisted and served in the US Army for three years during the Vietnam War.

James was a member of and served as a Deacon at St. Paul Baptist Church in Kearneysville. He was a member of the Layman’s League with Shenandoah Valley Baptist Union Association.

James was an avid bowler and softball player. He was formerly married to Rosemarie McDowell.

He leaves behind four daughters: LaTisha Blackwood of New York, NY, Ayisha and husband, Keith Drummond of Inwood, Katrina and husband, Zachary Smith of Bronx, NY, and Samantha McDowell of Bronx, NY; three sons: James McDowell, Jr., Andre’ McDowell, Sr., and Vincent McDowell, all of Martinsburg; eleven grandchildren: Tre’Vis Walker, Andrew Blackwood, Ceianna and Kaelon Farquharson, D’Asia McAuley, Laquan Walker-McDowell, Andre’ McDowell, Jr., NiEelah McDowell, TeSean Jones, Aidan McDowell, and NaKiyah Walker-McDowell; three sisters: Veda McDowell of Kearneysville, Lynnette McDowell of Kearneysville, and Julia and husband Steve Smith of Falling Waters; a special cousin, Kenny King; the mothers of three of his grandchildren: Mandie Comer and Talli McDaniel; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers: Ronald and Vincent McDowell; and two sisters: Brenda McDowell and Kimberly Cook; his mother-in-law with whom he had a special relationship with, Marie P. Ross.

We will truly miss you and you will always live in our hearts and memories, Love Your Family.

Friends will be received at New Destiny Ministry Center in Kearneysville on Saturday, March 14th from 12pm until the time of the funeral service at 1pm. Interment will follow in Rosedale Cemetery.