James Willie McDowell

James Willie McDowell, 71, of Oppelo, Arkansas, died suddenly in his home Friday, September 2, 2011. He was born in Dardanelle, Arkansas, on September 6, 1939, to Sam and Laura Miller McDowell. After graduating from the University of Arkansas with a degree in civil engineering, he began his career working at the Arkansas State Health Department in Little Rock where he remained for 37 years. James was a wonderful Christian man who loved the outdoors, food, and traveling. He was a member of the Downtown Church of Christ in Morrilton. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Biggs Ganus McDowell, son Jimmy (Beth) McDowell of Tequesta, Florida, and daughter Janet Earls of Sheridan; stepchildren: Kelly (Damien) Rorick, Laura (Jacob) Perkins, and Matthew Ganus; grandchildren, Brooke, Brittany, Brye, Brenna, Beau, Catherine, Thomas, Caroline, and Eva; stepmother, Betty Grinder of Russellville; and sisters, Sammie Kay McDowell (Wes Tolar) of Russellville and Lucinda (Danny) Tereza of Dardanelle. He will also be forever remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. James was preceded in death by his late wife of 49 years, Velda (Spivey) and stepbrother, Mike Denton. A celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 9, at the Downtown Church of Christ in Morrilton with Mr. John McCourt and Rob Gerst officiating. Burial will follow at the Havana Cemetery in Havana, Arkansas, by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Thursday, September 8, at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Southern Christian Home in Morrilton. Online guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net.