Phyllis Ann McDowell

Phyllis Ann McDowell

(January 25, 1947 – March 2, 2025)

RALEIGH – Phyllis Ann McDowell, 78, died on March 2, 2025 at her daughter’s home in Raleigh, NC. She was born January 25, 1947 to the late, Walter Watts Martin and Ruth Elizabeth Strutton Martin. Phyllis died of complications from dementia.

After high school, Phyllis earned an associate’s degree from Garner Webb University. She began her career in finance as a loan officer and eventually was promoted to credit union manager. While her daughter was in college, Phyllis went back to school to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Phyllis earned her teaching license and taught at Swansboro Middle School until she retired. Phyllis shared her love of history by teaching social studies, and she was thrilled to become a National Board-Certified Teacher.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband Master Sergeant Earl Freelin McDowell who died on October 30, 2020. Phyllis was extremely proud to be a Marine spouse. Phyllis and Earl were married for 51 years before they were temporarily separated by death. Phyllis’ family is so thankful they are reunited again. Phyllis’ ashes will be joined with Earl’s at the Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, NC.

Phyllis’ greatest joy was her family and time spent with them. She is survived by her daughter Lori Price (Jeff) of Raleigh; her grandchildren Henry and Jason; and her sister Sandy Inman (David) of Charleston, SC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Transitions Lifecare at transitionslifecare.org/donate.