On December 17, 2009, after a courageous, faith-filled battle with leukemia, Lou Ella Dowd of Pauls Valley, Okla., went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ while surrounded by her loving family.
Lou Dowd, 83, was born on June 22, 1926, in Wynnewood, Okla., to Sam and Ella (Calhoun) Andrews.
Lou spent her childhood days on her parents’ farm near Wynnewood. Lou’s father worked for Wynnewood Refinery.
Lou graduated from Wynnewood High School and during World War II was a “Rosie the Riveter” at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City. She then worked for Dr. Rhodes in Pauls Valley where he trained her to become a dental assistant. She later worked for Dr. J.H. Shirley’s dental office as a dental assistant until her retirement.
On November 18, 1966, Lou married Jack Dowd at the First Presbyterian Church in Pauls Valley. Jack and Lou enjoyed spending time with their family, friends and traveling. The care and devotion Lou showed to Jack in his closing days will be forever remembered and esteemed by her family and friends.
Lou served as a member of the Pauls Valley Hospital Auxiliary where she accumulated 4,800 hours. She also volunteered her time at Jackson School helping children to read. Lou was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where she had served as a deacon. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion.
Lou lived her life from day to day focusing on things of eternal value. She spent her time loving and caring for others. Her priorities were established in faith, family, friends, church and community.
Lou was a classy lady with impeccable manners and an air of sophistication. Her heart was humble, compassionate and understanding of others and their heartaches and troubles. Lou always remembered to express her thanks to local firemen, police and postal workers by taking them delicious treats and cards. Having lunch or coffee with friends made a good day for Lou. Her twinkling blue eyes and warm happy smile were her special gifts to others. A highlight for Lou was traveling all over the country to see her grandchildren perform and compete in various activities.
Lou is survived by: two daughters: Sheila Slusher and Judy Davis; two sons-in-law: Richard Slusher and Jeff Davis; six grandchildren: Jessica, Kristi, Amanda, Bo, Meagan and Cody; and one great-grandchild: Sophie.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Ella Andrews; her husband, Jack Dowd; four sisters and a brother.
A celebration of her life is scheduled for Wednesday, December 23, 2009. at 1 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church of Pauls Valley with the Rev. Tom Buzbee officiating. Services are under the direction of Wooster Funeral Home.
The memorial book may be signed and the video viewed at the funeral home Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Condolences may also be sent to the family at www.woosterfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pauls Valley General Hospital home health care service, 100 Valley Drive, Pauls Valley, OK 73075.
