‘Rabbit’ Dowdy

JEFFERSON – Branson Ralph “Rabbit” Dowdy, 77, died Sunday, April 26, 2009.

A native of Jackson County, he was the son of the late Curtis M. and Addie Jackson Dowdy. He was retired from Reliance Electric with 23 years of service, and was a veteran, having served in the United States Army during World War II. Mr. Dowdy was preceded in death by a brother, Lyndon Dowdy; and sister, Annette Smith. He was a loving father, husband, and loyal friend to his family and friends loved ones stated.

Survivors include his wife, Sandra Storey Dowdy, Jefferson; daughters and son-in-law, Mandy McLeroy, Wanda and Dwight Standridge, all of Jefferson; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 28, from the Bethany United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dugar Strickland officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Cody Dowdy, Curtis Smith, Johnny Brown, Buzzy Blalock, Billy Barnett, Gerald Hart, Timmy Anglin and Pierce Nelms. Honorary pallbearers were Dwight Ward and Henley Wilkes.

Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson, was in charge of arrangements.