Smithfield – James Lewis "Jim" McDowell, 91, passed away on January 8, 2023.  He was born March 1, 1931 in Newport News, VA to the late Lewis Fredrick McDowell and Mary Hallie Reed.  He is survived by his brother Lewis Fred McDowell of Boise, ID, and his best friend Dooley, a Miniature Pinscher.  Other survivors include his close friends and extended family, Mary and Rita Porter of Franklin, VA, his nieces Cheril Heal and Susie Benksin of South Carolina, a nephew Richard McDowell of Boise, ID, and many cousins in VA, WV, and SC.  Jim was predeceased by his sister, Carol Elaine Heal and her husband of Maine.

He was retired from the US Navy where he earned many awards and also from the Yorktown Naval Weapons Station.  He was an avid and successful fisherman and hunter who loved the sport and the friends he met while enjoying these activities.  He loved visiting Monroe County, WV, the birthplace of his parents.

Wright Funeral Home and Crematory in Franklin VA are in charge of arrangements.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org