Deacon Johnnie Edward McDowell, Sr.

 Philippians 1:21 “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

On December 31st, 1947, in Pike County, Georgia, Johnnie Edward McDowell, Sr. was born to Deacon Charlie T. McDowell and Mother Ruby Fallin McDowell. He was named in honor of his maternal grandfather, Mr. John Fallin.

From a young age, his spiritual and baptismal journey was nurtured at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Milner, Georgia, where his father served as Chairman of Deacons, under the leadership of the late Reverend Lumpkin Lovett.

John attended Booker Elementary School and graduated from Pike County Comprehensive High School in 1966. He answered the call to serve our country and was proud of his accomplishments while serving in the United States Army. He often wore his “Vietnam Veterans” hat as a reminder of his service and sacrifice. He made Sergeant (E-5) in two years, Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14); 1st Class Gunner (M60-MG), Marksman Rifle (M-16), National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Three Bronze Service Stars, and a Combat Infantry Badge; departing with a rank of Staff Sergeant.

He enrolled at Griffin Area Technical College to pursue studies in mechanics and served as a Life Insurance Agent for United Family Life Insurance Company. However, his lifelong calling to support grieving families led him to a distinguished career in funeral service that spanned nearly 60 years.

John graduated from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in August of1973 and started his journey as a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer with McDowell-United Funeral Home in Griffin, Georgia, Union Society Funeral Home in Concord, Georgia, and McDowell-Walker Funeral Home in East Point, Georgia.

John met and married the love of his life, Sallie (Peach), May 7th, 1987. To this union, his only son, John, Jr. was born. In 1992, with passion for his craft and commitment to service with integrity and grace, McDowell’s Funeral Home Inc. was founded by Mr. John E. and Sallie L. McDowell. Together, they built a legacy of love, compassion, and unity.  

Serving families in their time of need came easy for Deacon McDowell. He was a true pillar in the community, who believed in Christ Jesus and knew the “Ministry of Comfort” he provided was sacred and a true testament to his dedication and God’s master plan for his life.

John was ordained as a deacon at New Generation Christian Fellowship, under the pastoral leadership of Apostle Mamie Harris-Smith. Deacon John E. McDowell was in fellowship with Wolf Creek County Line Baptist Church in Griffin, Georgia, under the leadership of Pastor, Dr. Samuel Dickson. Through the years, Deacon McDowell supported several ministries, with his time and offerings. He helped so many along the way, always with a humble and solemn spirit. 

John brought so much joy to the lives of others, especially his family. He enjoyed every moment and often said how blessed he was to be surrounded by unconditional love. His prayer was for his legacy in serving bereaved families would continue when his work on earth was done. His wife and children will continue to honor and uphold that legacy. Carla, Felicia, and John, Jr. are licensed morticians and graduates of Gupton Jones College. John, Jr. proudly serves as the company’s Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge. His legacy will profoundly continue for generations to come. 

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, McDowell’s Staff and the community he served with unwavering dedication for so many years. We will always remember the love, laughter and joy he brought into our lives. He is resting in peace but will remain in our hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Deacon Charlie T. McDowell and Ruby Fallin-McDowell; Sisters: Mrs. Annie Maude McDowell-Watson and Ms. Charlie Mae McDowell; Brothers: Mr. Larry McDowell and Mr. Gary McDowell.

Deacon John E. McDowell peacefully transitioned on October 27th 2025, with his wife by his side. He leaves to cherish his memory: A devoted wife: Mrs. Sallie L. McDowell; Children: Kimberly McDowell, Carla Nealey, Dr. Felicia Williams, and John E. McDowell, Jr. (Quiwajula “Ke-Ke”); Siblings: Patricia McDowell, Wayne McDowell, Willie Lee Hughley and Curtis Hudson; brothers and sisters-in-law, along with a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

    McDowell's Funeral Home, Inc., is entrusted with Home Going Care!