Jacqueline “Jackie” McDowell

Jacqueline “Jackie” (Larson) McDowell, 98, of Middletown, wife of the late Dr. Arthur V. McDowell, Jr., died Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by her family. Jackie was born in Middletown, the daughter of the late John E. and Cecilia (Whalen) Collings. She graduated from Middletown High School, Class of 1943, and went on to work as the executive secretary to the CEO of Middlesex Mutual. She continued her career as a secretary in Albany, NY, while her late husband, Dr. McDowell, was in medical school. Upon the birth of her first and subsequent children, she became a devoted homemaker, always providing the utmost love and care to her family. Jackie “retired” as the first employee of Pavilion Catering (CT Wedding Group) in Middletown and continued gracing the staff with her presence as often as she could. Jackie was incredibly active throughout her life. She was an avid golfer, playing in the women’s league at Portland Golf Course for many years; never counting strokes, just getting out there and “hitting the darn thing”. She enjoyed walking to the Y several times a week for Silver Sneakers, lunching with friends, and bus trips with AARP. Her grandchildren always said that she had a more active social life than they did! Jackie volunteered for many years and thousands of hours at Middlesex Hospital, and especially enjoyed her service to the Middlesex Hospital Golf Tournament. Being able to comfort and care for those who needed it most was a considerable part of Jackie’s life, right up until her last days. Jackie had an unmatched zest for life that inspired so many she met throughout her 98 years. She was a worldwide traveler; cruising with friends or family, long trips, short trips, it didn’t really matter! She never said no to an opportunity to travel. She would go anywhere with anyone at any time just as long as she could bring her old-fashioned “ingredients” with her. She loved an impromptu trip to the casino, where you could see her playing the slots. She loved bingo on cruise ships, Pokeno at The Village, and the occasional Cards Against Humanity with her grandchildren. Unbeknownst to her, Jackie was continuously inspiring the next generation of children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren. She was loyal to her core, a positive force, honest, and never had a bad word to say about anyone or anything; ALWAYS looking at the glass half full. She was light in every room she ever walked into, and we will continue carrying on her legacy, living life just as Jackie would. Jackie is survived by her children, Dr. Arthur “Bud” McDowell, III and his wife Gail, Steven McDowell and his wife Vicki, Elizabeth “Liz” McDowell, Thomas McDowell and his wife Samantha; grandchildren, Steven Jr. McDowell and his wife Ashley, Ryan McDowell-Smith and his wife Allison, Darren McDowell and his wife Robin, Joe McDowell and his wife Sara, Mary-Beth Valk and her husband Dan, Kaylan McDowell-Smith and her fiancé Michael Byrnes, Thomas McDowell, Meghan McDowell, Jack McDowell and his fiancée Hope Hutchings, Libby Cap, and Ashley Cap; and eleven great-grandchildren, whom she loved so much. Besides her husband, she was predeceased by her son, Dr. David McDowell and her grandson, Michael McDowell-Smith. The McDowell Family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff and friends at The Village at South Farms, where she resided for the last 17 months. She loved her time at The Village, and we’re so grateful for the love and care shown to her during her time there. The McDowell Family would also like to thank the staff at Middlesex Hospital, including those on North 5 and Hospice for showing Jackie the loving compassion and care that she deserved. Jackie McDowell’s Funeral Liturgy will be held Wednesday (Feb. 7th) at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Elm St., Middletown. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Middletown. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday (Feb. 6th) from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Middlesex Hospice and Palliative Care, 28 Crescent St., Middletown. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome. com .