James Carlton McDowell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Carlton McDowell, 75, who left us on Thursday, March 13th, at his home in Bossier City, Louisiana, while recovering from heart surgery. James, known to many simply as Jim, was a kind soul whose gentle spirit and unwavering love for his family and community will be dearly missed.

Jim was born on June 22, 1949, to Joe and Maxine McDowell in Ruston Louisiana. Born the oldest of three children and raised largely in Bossier City, Jim's early years set the stage for a life dedicated to learning and service. He graduated from Airline High School in 1967, earning a place among the top 20 students in his class. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Northwestern University in Natchitoches, Louisiana where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Arts with a specialization in Financial Aid. Jim furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Arts with a specialization in Financial Counseling, which laid the foundation for a rich and varied career.

Jim began his professional journey at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, Georgia. Eventually, he returned to his roots in the Bossier City area, joining Louisiana Downs at its inception and holding various roles throughout his tenure. Later in life, fulfilling a lifelong dream, Jim achieved his Master Gardener certification and dedicated many years as the Master Gardener at the Shreveport Regional Airport until his retirement. His commitment and hardworking nature were evident in every chapter of his life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim's true joy came from tending his garden and caring for his dogs. Whether nurturing vibrant rose bushes or sharing moments with his loyal canine companions, his love for gardening and dogs was a testament to his gentle nature and deep connection to the beauty of life. Jim was kind to all who knew him, always ready with a warm smile and a compassionate word.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe G. McDowell and Vada Maxine Yarbrough McDowell, and his lifelong partner, Marguerite Goin, who shared over 40 years of his life—a bond that began at the American Rose Center where they first met and grew through many shared experiences, including their time at Louisiana Downs.

Jim is lovingly survived by his sister, Molly Jo McDowell Gray, and husband, Richard Gray II; brother, William Jake McDowell; niece, Bonnie Jo Gray Arbuckle, and husband, Robert Arbuckle III; nephew, Richard Gray III, and wife, Anna Gray. He also leaves behind his next generation including his great-nephews and nieces, Ethan Arbuckle and wife, Abbigayle Arbuckle, Megan Arbuckle Veilleux and husband, Brandon Veilleux, Abie Gray, Ella Gray, Amos Gray, Evie Gray, John Hunter Berry, Charlie Berry, and Henry Berry; great-great nephew and niece, Oliver Arbuckle and Anastasia Arbuckle.

James Carlton McDowell's life was marked by a dedication to education, a passion for his work, and a love for the simple pleasures of life. His memory lives on through his family, his garden, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness. May he rest in eternal peace.