John C Dowdy

John Crawford Dowdy was born January 23, 1944 in Nashville, Tennessee to the union of Charles and Edith Crawford Dowdy. He was the younger of two sons but was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Avery. Both received their education through the Nashville Educational System, with John graduating at the age of 16. He then attended Howard University in Washington, DC, where he received his Liberal Arts degree. After graduation, John involved himself into work, play and business of being grown. He came to work at Western Michigan University, where he met Donna Fisher. Their relationship progressed, evolved and endured and they married. They remained in Kalamazoo, Michigan and together they set about the chores and joys of rearing children, establishing a life in the community and maintaining a life together. John is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Donna; four sons, Maurice (Kim), Dalton, Wesley and Ashon; one daughter, Stephanie (Chris); they were further blessed with four beautiful grand-daughters, Ariel, Alisha, Avery and Aleah; two handsome grandsons, Zachary Allen and Mikeal; his beautiful sister-in-law, Kittie Dowdy; nieces, Stephany and her son Kyle, Tracy and her daughters, Brittany and Kirstyn and a nephew. He also leaves to mourn his passing assorted special friends, church members and people he assisted in the community.
John was offered and accepted a position with the State of Michigan Department of Corrections in Saginaw, Michigan as a probation/parole officer. He was well suited for this position due to his no nonsense attitude towards life, coupled with concern to help people better themselves as well as a degree of both empathy and compassion. He had a low tolerance for foolishness and endeavored to advise both family and his clients on what would and would not be tolerated. He was an old fashioned mans man who favored hats and dressing well. John was an avid fan of sports. He was not warm and cuddly but could be counted on to do the best he could when called, but was very adamant that you not confuse his kindness for weakness. He was a positive presence not only to his family but within the community.
While John believed in God growing up, he joined the church late in life. He was a joyful member of Bethel AME Church under the leadership of Pastor P. David Saunders with whom he developed a close and enduring relationship which John treasured. He was well received into the church family and remained a faithful member until the end. This relationship truly mellowed him and allowed him some peace that was sometimes elusive.
John was stricken suddenly and severely while still working and had to retire due to health concerns. He attempted to maintain a certain degree of decorum, grace and dignity throughout this time with Donna forever at his side. He was a man who valued his privacy but found solace in speaking with his friends.
John left this life on Saturday, June 21, 2014 unexpectedly after putting up a brave and ongoing battle with a variety of health issues. He will be missed but remember fondly by those who knew and loved him.
Visitation: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries
Service Plans: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries