Margaret Grace McDowell, Member of Community of Christ, Dies at 73

Margaret Grace McDowell, a devoted member of the Community of Christ, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025. Born on July 12, 1951, in Wichita, Kansas, she was the daughter of Ron and Marian (Barritt) Manuel. Margaret graduated from Truman High School in 1969 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Graceland College, now known as Graceland University, in 1973.

After completing her education, Margaret married Rod McDowell, with whom she had two sons, Aaron Todd McDowell and Ethan Scott McDowell. She dedicated several years to teaching elementary school in Bethany, Missouri, before relocating to Independence, Missouri. There, she worked as an Administrative Assistant for the Community of Christ until her retirement.

A member of the Village Heights congregation within the Community of Christ, Margaret served as a Teacher in the priesthood. She was known for her generosity and community involvement, often gathering with friends every Thursday morning to create bed mats for the homeless using plastic bags. She also played the dulcimer with a local group called Strings in Harmony at her church.

Margaret cherished her family and pets, including a cat named Missy, whom she found as a baby kitten on the street. In her later years, she discovered a love for singing and dancing, which brought her joy and connection with others. She also participated in the JAM (Jesus and Me) program at the Boys and Girls Club in Hawthorne Apartments, working with children in her community.

Margaret is survived by her sons Aaron and Ethan, her brother Evan Manuel and his wife Mary Jo, and several nieces and nephews. A brief memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 16, at 2:00 pm, at Village Heights Community of Christ in Independence, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Saint Luke’s Hospice House are encouraged.

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