William Joseph McDowell

William Joseph McDowell, 83, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at his home. He was born on June 22, 1940, in Sedalia, the son of William Mac McDowell and Artie Nadine (Pettis) McDowell-Blakely, who preceded him in death.

On December 31, 1959, in Sedalia, MO, he was united in marriage to Nancy Homan, who preceded him in death on May 19, 2022.

Bill was a 1958 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School. After high school, Bill worked as a buyer and seller for Robinson's Shoes in Kansas City. In 1974, he moved back to Sedalia and opened his own shoe store known as the Shoe Gallery. In 1977, he started his own home construction business. He built several homes around the Sedalia area and started Sedalia's first Country Club Estates housing edition. In 2015, he started working for Lowe's at the age of 75, where he was known for his knowledge, customer service, and kind spirit.

Survivors include four children, Laurie Naylor of Kansas City, Heidi Schwartz of Sedalia, Kelly Sims of Sedalia, and William Joseph II and Maria McDowell of Sedalia; twelve grandchildren, Hilary, Casey, Brady, Glen, Josh, Holli, Zachary, Michael, Cassie, Taylor, Torry, and Trey; sixteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his wife and parents, Bill was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Woolery Camirand.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Tremayne Umbles officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

The burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery immediately following the service.

Honorary bearers will be John Kelly, Beverly Rice, Myrna Ragar, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Loving Arms Memory Care and Assisted Living or Heartland Hospice in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.