Mrs. Merle Pridgen McDowell, 95, died Saturday, August 3, 2013. She was a native of Geneva County and a long time resident of Brewton. She was actively involved in her church and community as a Sunday school teacher, Girl’s Auxiliary leader, WMU, Brewton Civic League, Boy and Girl Scout, and Stitchery Group. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gracie and Grady Pridgen; and her husband of 65 years, James Edward McDowell.
She is survived by her six children, Anita Fowler (Rene), James Earl McDowell (Barbara), Roger McDowell (Lida), Candy McMillan (Robert), Alex McDowell (Jane) and Donna Nightingale; one brother Drewey Pridgen (Tina); 17 grandchildren and 26 great-great-grandchildren.
Private family burial will be held Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Union Cemetery in Brewton. The Rev. Marshall Craver will be officiating. Following the burial service, a memorial service for family and friends will be held at the First Baptist Church of Brewton at 11:30 am Tuesday, August 6, with the Rev. Jack Fitts officiating and Williams Memorial Chapel Funeral Home directing.