Mary Lee Dowdell

It is with great love and celebration of life that we announce the passing of Mary Lee Dowdell, who left us on July 16, 2025, at the age of 74. Mary was born on April 19, 1951, in Laurel, Mississippi to Campbell Lee & Bernever (Clinton) Gamble and brought her joy and warmth to the Muskegon community, where she made her home.

Mary had worked in food service at Long John Silvers for several years and then later as a landlord and property manager. Known for her incredible cooking, Mary was especially famous for her soul food, including her delightful collard greens and deviled eggs that were a staple at family gatherings. She had an infectious love for music, dancing, playing Lotto, and Bingo, which brought joy to her life and those around her. Mary had a special gift for making any occasion feel festive and memorable, and she loved to get dressed up and celebrate with family and friends. In her later years she took joy in attending Whosoever Thirst Ministries COGIC in Grand Haven.

SURVIVORS

Mary was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She dedicated her life to her family, cherishing her time with her family. Her children - Larry Joe Gamble/Dowdell, Lawrence Dowdell, Mary Cherry, Desmond (Ashely) Dowdell, Clifford Dowdell and Yvonne Dowdell: Grandchildren, Cha'brea Coleman, Aveon Coleman, Ashanti McCain, Damond Davis, Jason Gardner, Jaquita Gardner, Juneja Gardner, Commoni Carter, Jalayah Aubrey-Cherry, Royalty Dowdell, La'arry Dent, Darry Dent, Dae'vynia Dowdell-Parrish, Dae'vyn Dowdell-Parish, DaQuan Dowdell, Edmond Dowdell, Diamond Dowdell, William Dowdell, Starkesha Dowdell, Ossie Gordon, Lastaycha Dowdell, Aniqua Dowdell, Lawrence Vernon, Demond Vernon, Marquis Pratt, Tinesha Pratt, Semajae Lawson, Astoria Kolenic, Alexis Dowdell, Joseph Dowdell, Christopher Dowdell, Dylan Dowdell, Darius Huntington, Desmond Dowdell Jr., Tehillah Dowdell, Zion Dowdell, Mary was also blessed with the companionship of her siblings: Roosevelt Gamble, Kennedy Gamble, Douglas Gamble, Bobby Gamble, Joseph (Penny) Gamble, Robert Gamble, George (Mary) Gamble, William (Linda) Gamble, Burneta (Alonza) Anthony, Ruby Gamble-Schodowski, Carmen Galitan, and Gladys Gamble. She was preceded in death by her husband Bobby Lee Dowdell, her daughter Linda Ann Dowdell, her grandchild Chanette Pratt, her parents and siblings Eugene "Boedi"Gamble,James Gamble,Henry Gamble,and Bobbie Jean Gamble. Her family was her greatest treasure, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried on through them.

Join us in honoring the vibrant spirit of Mary Lee Dowdell at her visitation at Clock Funeral Home on July 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m with Pastor Gary Green from Whosoever Thirst Ministries COGIC officiating. We will gather together to reflect on her life and celebrate the many wonderful memories we share. Mary will be laid to rest after the service at Restlawn Cemetery.

In this time of remembrance, let us come together to share our stories, our laughter, and our tears, honoring the incredible life of a woman who brought so much light into our lives. Mary Lee Dowdell will be deeply missed, but her love will forever remain in our hearts.