Johnny Elijah “Mac” McDowell

A homegoing celebration for Johnny Elijah “Mac” McDowell, 75, of Covington, was held March 7, 2015, at St. James A.M.E. Church. Pastor Eric Horne officiated; Donna Marie Calix is church pastor. Burial was in South View Cemetery.

Mr. McDowell passed away peacefully in the early hours of Friday, Feb. 27, 2015. His final days were spent surrounded by friends and family. He was born on February 1, 1940 in Jasper County, Ga., to Johnny E. McDowell, Sr., and Florine Johnson-McDowell.

Johnny attended the Jasper County Training School, class of 1959 in Monticello. He worked as a HAZMAT driver for 27 years with Ashland Chemical Company in Norcross. Johnny, also known to many as Mac, was a family man. Not only did he raise his own children, but he was also instrumental in helping raise some of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Mary Forcine-McDowell of Covington; children, Audrey Maxine McDowell of Conyers, Johnny Alphonso McDowell, Veronica Jean McDowell, and Lisa Renae McDowell, all of Covington, Allison Genell McDowell of Decatur; a brother, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Lee McDowell (Elaine) of Atlanta.

Also, brother-in-law, Leonard Forcine; sisters-in-law, Shirley Knight, Cheryl Banks and Julia Massey, all of Woodbine; 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and sorrowing friends.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Annie Mae Ross.

Pallbearers for Mr. McDowell’s service were grandsons, Johnny A. McDowell, Jr., Eric D. Hilton, Jamie D. Allen, Ricardo M. Love, Jr., Courtney M. Allen, and Travesis J. Monfort. Honorary pallbearers were members of the Jasper County Training School Class of 1959. Selective family and friends were flower attendants.

Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Monticello, was in charge of arrangements.