Gerald Leo "Jerry" Mcdowell

Jerry McDowell, 89 of Independence, Missouri passed away Friday, January 22, 2021.
Jerry was born on February 22, 1931 in Cherry Box, Missouri, the son of Truman L.
and Eula Mae (Green) McDowell.

Jerry grew up in Shelby County, Missouri; the third generation born there. Jerry's great
grandfather George W. McDowell and his wife owed 159 acres there, and stated in the
local paper in 1946 "electricity was the greatest gift to farmers." Jerry was a graduate of Shelby County High School. As a young man, Jerry moved to Independence, Missouri
and worked at Owens Coming Fiberglass, Kansas City, Kansas. In 1951 Jerry started
McDowell Trash Service and has been active in the solid waste industry his entire life, a
legacy his son, David, carried on. Jerry produced country music records for local artists
in 1964. As well he also owned numerous businesses including Skipper Car Wash, Speed
Oil Company, Big Wheel Bicycle, Uptown Taxi and Lafayette County Landfill.

Jerry was a member of the Priesthood in the Community of Christ religion serving at
more than one congregation. Jerry was a member of the Heart of America Model A Car
Club. Jerry loved farming, car restoration, and family gatherings. Jerry was a people
person and never missed an opportunity to joke around. He was a big-hearted generous
man. Every year Jerry and his wife Debbie were very active in volunteering to help those
whom were less fortunate. Jerry married Debbie (Parks) on February 22,2004.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Truman and Eula Mae McDowell, brothers;
Truman McDowell, Jr., wife Elva McDowell of Ft. Madison, Iowa, LeRoy McDowell of
Osceola, Missouri and Bert McDowell of Independence, Missouri, sons Michael and
Leland McDowell and grandsons Colin, Michael and Joshua McDowell.

Jerry leaves behind his beloved wife Debbie. He also leaves behind three surviving
children: David (wife Lesa), Carla (husband Larry Banham), and Steve (wife Melissa),
17 grandchildren and 12 great grand-children. Jerry also leaves behind his brother Don
McDowell (wife Sherry) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and sister in-law Shirley McDowell of
Independence, Missouri and cousins, nieces and nephews.

He is now in the hands of sweet Jesus.

A virtual-only service will be videoed and posted here under the "Photos and Videos" tab by noon on Friday, January 29th. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans at dav.org. Online condolences may be expressed and virtual guestbook signed at www.speakschapel.com