Joyce A. McDowell

Joyce A. McDowell, age 79, of Manchester, IA, completed her earthly journey peacefully on August 27, 2024, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home, with her loving family holding her hands.  To honor Joyce’s life, a private family graveside service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joyce’s family.

Joyce was born on March 29, 1945, in Latrobe, PA, a daughter to William E. and Vera M. (Billhorn) Uptegraph.  In her younger years, the family made their way to the Manchester area.  She was united in marriage to her husband, Raymond H. McDowell, on November 19, 1961.  They were blessed with 60 years together before he was sadly called home ahead of her in 2021. 

Over the years, Joyce worked in the health care field, food service industry, and also invested her time cleaning both homes and offices in the area.  Her greatest joy though was often found in her years in the private home healthcare she provided.   

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joyce include,

her children,

Shelley Gorsh,

Dan (Chris) McDowell,

Brian (Pauline Schaffner) McDowell,

Gary (Pam) McDowell,

Amy (Mike) Shipley,

and Meri Helmrichs;

her 17 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray; her mother and father-in-law, Harry and Ida (Johnston) McDowell; and her grandson, Dylan.

Joyce’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Edgewood Convalescent Home and St. Croix Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Joyce’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com