James Franklin McDowell Sr.

James Franklin McDowell Sr., 67, of Martinsburg, passed away March 3, 2015.

Born Nov. 28, 1947, in Martinsburg, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Theodosia McDowell.

He received his diploma at Shepherdstown High School. After graduation, he enlisted and served in the U.S. Army for three years during the Vietnam War.

James was a member of and served as a deacon at St. Paul Baptist Church in Kearneysville. He was a member of the Layman’s League with Shenandoah Valley Baptist Union Association.

James was an avid bowler and softball player. He was formerly married to Rosemarie McDowell.

He leaves behind four daughters, LaTisha Blackwood, of New York, New York, Ayisha and husband, Keith Drummond, of Inwood, Katrina and husband, Zachary Smith, of Bronx, New York, and Samantha McDowell, of Bronx; three sons, James McDowell Jr., Andre’ McDowell Sr., and Vincent McDowell, all of Martinsburg; 11 grandchildren, Tre’Vis Walker, Andrew Blackwood, Ceianna and Kaelon Farquharson, D’Asia McAuley, Laquan Walker-McDowell, Andre’ McDowell Jr., NiEelah McDowell, TeSean Jones, Aidan McDowell, and NaKiyah Walker- McDowell; three sisters, Veda McDowell, of Kearneysville, Lynnette McDowell, of Kearneysville, and Julia and husband, Steve Smith, of Falling Waters; a special cousin, Kenny King; the mothers of three of his grandchildren, Mandie Comer and Talli McDaniel; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Ronald and Vincent McDowell; and two sisters, Brenda McDowell and Kimberly Cook; his mother-in-law, with whom he had a special relationship with, Marie P. Ross.

We will truly miss you and you will always live in our hearts and memories. Love, Your Family.

Funeral services were held at New Destiny Ministry Center, in Kearneysville, on Saturday, March 14, at 1 p.m. Interment followed in Rosedale Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to www.rosedalefuneral.com