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Mary Dowdy Obituary

Mary Alice Dowdy VIRGINIA BEACH - Mary Alice Dowdy, 73, passed away peacefully Christmas Eve surrounded by her family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Marmet, W.Va., she was the daughter of the late Hobert H. and Rubby A. Harrah. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, David A. Dowdy and three children, Stephanie A. Hartleben, David D. Dowdy and his wife Toni, Jannifer G. Summerhill and her husband Robert, all of Virginia Beach; five cherished grandchildren, Neale and Jordan Hartleben, Adam Dowdy, and Jackson and Rebecca Summerhill; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Charlotte A. Chriswell and her husband Jerry, Faye Clatworthy and her husband Jim; and one brother, Charles H. Harrah and his wife Sharon. Alice was a stay-at-home mom until later years when she helped run the family owned business Printing by Dowdy's. It is a blessing to know that she went to be with the Lord on Christmas Eve, her favorite day of the year! Alice loved Christmas and always made it a magical time for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Those memories will be cherished forever. Alice requested no ceremony and preferred to have a small gathering with immediate family. The Cremation Society of Virginia is assisting with the arrangements. A special thanks to Sentara Home Care Services and Hospice's special nurse B.J. and her daughter, Jannifer for being a loving and devoted caregiver. It comforts us to know that Alice is now with God! Online condolences may be expressed at www.cremate.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Dec. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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January 6, 2011

Stephanie, glad I got to speak to you this week, your Mom was a very special person and one of my very special people as well as your Dad. We had some good times during your reign as Miss Virginia. Its been five years since I lost my Mom and I have great memories of her. I'm sure you have such wonderful memories of your mom as well. They will stay with you the rest of your life. Love ya, Polly

Beth Walls

January 4, 2011

"I know Alice is in heaven with mom and dad. and they are sitting up all night talking. What a wonderful woman. She was always my favorite aunt. I have such great memories that were created in Virginia Beach. Love you guys, and you all are in my thoughts and prayers."

Becky Howle

January 2, 2011

I am so very sorry to hear about Alice. She was a special lady and will be greatly missed. She and my mom are together again, and if Heaven ever needs a plumbing remodel . . .

Susan Prentice Irby

January 2, 2011

Stephanie - now she is with the angels - may God continue to comfort you.

Linda Pupich

January 2, 2011

Stephanie and family-

My prayers will be with you! Praising God for the hope only found in Christ Jesus! May He be your comfort and give you peace. Love from my family to yours,

Jeanie Baldwin

January 2, 2011

Stephanie--I am so sorry to hear about your loss, there is no replacement for our Moms! If I can do anything please let me know, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Jeanie Baldwin

Patrick & Madeline Dunstan

December 30, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

December 29, 2010

Stephanie and family I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your dear mother. I remember her from growing up and how kind she was to me. My mother passed at Thanksgiving so I understand your loss. May God comfort you and your family at this time.

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