Eva Pency MacDowell

Mrs. MacDowell was born in McRae, Ga., on Sept. 16, 1953, the loving daughter of Dr. Duncan Burwell McRae and Eva Mae Smith McRae. She attended Telfair High School in McRae; and was a graduate of Penn Hall College, Wilson, Pa., and Katharine Gibbs Business School for Women in New York City. Following graduation, Mrs. MacDowell worked in the brokerage business in New York City and Atlanta for many years.

Fulfilling a lifelong dream, Mrs. MacDowell retired to St. Simons Island in 2000 with her late husband, Steve MacDowell. Best known for her bright smile, keen sense of humor and love of family and friends, she was a great cook, gracious hostess and adored her canine companion, Gertie.

Mrs. MacDowell is survived by her daughter Eva McRae Haile of Oakland, Calif.; sister Neille McRae Wilson of Sarasota, Fla.; brothers Dr. Duncan B. McRae of Montgomery, Ala., and Thomas S. McRae of Decatur, Ga.; and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. MacDowell’s memorialization will be by cremation. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, at 172St. Clair Drive, St. Simons Island.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia, 4627 US Highway 17 N, Brunswick, GA 31525.