Betty Louise McDowell's Obituary
Betty Louise McDowell, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at the age of 80.
Betty was born on July 1, 1945, in Maryville, Missouri, to the late Samuel and Hazel Hicks. She was raised in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and later moved to Lakeland, Florida, where she made her home for 42 years.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Timothy McDowell Sr., who passed away on May 26, 2025.
Betty was a feisty and spirited woman who never backed down from a challenge and always stood up for what she believed in. She loved deeply and fiercely, especially when it came to her family, who meant everything to her. Her heart was always full, and she delighted in sharing laughter, stories, and special moments with those she loved. She was known for her caring nature, resilience, and the deep bonds she shared with those closest to her.
She is survived by her seven children: Tambra McDowell; Phillip (“Cookie”) McDowell; Dianne (Nicholas) Rose; Timothy McDowell Jr.; Meshel Strickland; Shawn (Holly) McDowell; and Jonathan (Toni) McDowell. She also leaves behind 20 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy. Betty especially loved playing with her grandbabies and cherished every visit, hug, and story shared.
Betty was also a cherished sister, survived by Barbara Warren, Phyllis Brink, and Brenda (John) Way. She was preceded in death by her siblings Beverly MacCallum, Lindi Daniels, and Gary Hicks.
Betty dedicated 25 years of her life to working at Kmart, where she was respected and admired by her coworkers for her diligence, friendliness, and dependable nature. She had a creative spirit and loved writing stories, poems, and songs. She never knew a stranger, always greeting everyone with warmth and kindness.
A service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held at a later date in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Betty Louise McDowell will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
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