Donald Earl McDowell, Sr. departed from his earthly life on October 10, 2021. He was born in Kings Mountain, NC on October 29, 1947, to the union of the late George Ernest McDowell and Earlie Mae Bell McDowell. Later, he was raised by his paternal aunt Helen M. Carver, whom he lovingly and affectionately called Mother. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Ronald McDowell, and a sister, Addie McDowell Roberts.
Donald received his education from High Point City Schools, and was a graduate of William Penn High School, Class of 1967. Donald joined the United States Army, where he served an enlistment of 4 years. He was a family-oriented person who loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, teaching them the fine art of every sport he knew. Donald even coached a few athletic teams in which his children participated. He was a great provider for his family and spent his latter years working at Valspar Corporation. Donald was loved by many young men who saw him as their father figure and would spend time with him soaking up his wisdom. He was energetic and had a zest for life.
He leaves to lovingly cherish his memories, his wife of 42 years, Maggie Quick McDowell; a son, Donald E. McDowell, Jr.; two daughters, Yolanda McDowell and Stephanie Miles; six grandchildren, Nicholas Covington, Candice Covington, Brea Miles, Essence Miles, Zoie McDowell-Gilmore, and Ayden McDowell; one great-grandson, Tazmin Miles-McAdoo; one sister, Annie Francilla Guinn of Kings Mountain, NC; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel with Rev. F.O. Bass, Jr., officiating. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 11:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.
Mr. McDowell was the man guaranteed to be at everyone of our games from age 9-18. He believed in all of us and taught us so much. He was as a loving father, role model, and our biggest coach/cheerleader. My heart aches for all of you. He was such a good man. God bless, Julie Whitt
Blessings to the family, Earl was a classmate. He is in a better place.
Maggie & family, You are all in our thoughts & prayers. May God comfort you as only He can.
The Dye & Love families
Maggie, May God give you and your family comfort at this difficult time. Donald was my classmate, and neighbor/friend, for all those years way back on Henley Street. I shall never forget his kindness to me and my family. Brenda Torrence Mitchell
My condolences to the family during this time my you find peace and comfort in knowing that you have a forever angel protecting and watching over you. Love Shaunte Rouse and Family
Yolanda. As some people journey through life, they leave footprints wherever they go, footprints of kindness and love, courage and compassion, humor and inspiration, joy and faith. Even when they are gone, we still can look back and clearly see the trail they left behind, a trail bright with hope that invites us to follow. Your father left that trail. May he rest in peace. With sympathy. Jerry Mingo
Yolanda and Family. Times like these bring a flood of memories of so many times shared. We hope you feel afresh the lasting impact of your father's legacy. We are praying you all know God's comfort and peace and that memories will keep your father close. With sympathy. The Burns Hill Neighborhood Association
To my Aunt Maggie,
I love you. I am so sorry that you are going through this at this time. Growing up around you guys I can always remember my daddy mimicking Uncle Dons voice when my mama was on the phone with you. I pray for your peace and comfort.
To my cousins: Step, Bro, Nic, Candise, Brea, and Essence
I know that you all loved him so much. I love you all and thank you for helping us not so long ago and just know we have you anytime you need some comfort or an ear.
Love, Champayne, Kimora, and Karter Daughtridge
To Maggie and family, you are in our prayers. May all your precious memories sustain you during this difficult time.
Dianna, Gale, Wanda and Beverly. (Couisin Geraldine daughter's).
Heartfelt condolences to you and your family, Maggie.
Paul W. Brawner
RIP Daddy ...... prayers for Peace & comfort to Moma & all y'all at this time .... I Love y'all Moma, Donald , Step ,Yolanda & all the kids Love ❤️ LeAnn
Sending our condolences to you and your family during this time. Kimberly Willis Williams and Family.
Daddy....Daddy....Daddy Words really can't explain the way I feel!!! So many more questions to ask....rides to take....and many more of our heated debates... Love You from the Sun Moon and Stars..... Your Babyboy....Donald Jr.
Desiree Boulware
Dear Da, This is one the the hardest things I've had to do. Saying goodbye to you. You raised me as well as my kids. You were a strong father to us. Even when we thought you were being mean, there was always a lesson to learn. We may have not seen it then but that was pure love. I love 💘 you Da. You will always be in my heart. Until we meet again... Rest Easy
I never thought I would be typing these words, I appreciate everything that you've done for me! I love you Papa and you'll be missed! Save me a spot up there and please watch over us! I promise to take care of Grandma and the family! Love, Your Roll Dawg.
Daddy, never thought I would be writing this so soon. I appreciate every minute and moment that I shared with you. I will see you again for one more dance with my daddy. Your Little Girl Always, Yolanda 💙💚
Maggie,my sincere condolences and prayers for you and the family. May God grant you serenity and peace,may he strengthen and comfort your heart and surround you with his everlasting love.
Mary Champion
Yokki dad will always be remembered as a gentle giant. He always had such a fun easy going spirit. He will truly be missed. Praying for you and the crew. We love y'all and we are here if you need anything. Love: Carla, Dray, Momma Faye, Mya and Kammie.
Sis, my family and I extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. Don will certainly be missed. May God comfort you and give you peace. We're always here for you. Mel, Glenn and family
In honor of Mr McDowell my redskins fan
Praying for the family in your time of need...Your neighbors the Brown's are here for you
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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