Rodney McDowell

Rodney Eugene McDowell, 65, of 473 Lockhart Lane, Apartment A-8, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late Paul and Collossia McDowell.

A proud member of Gaffney High School, Class of 1979, Rodney accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. He attended Greater Hope Ministries. His love for music began in his youth, where he played drums for the Sensational Gates of Shelby, North Carolina, and later became known as a phenomenal bass guitarist.

In addition to his parents, Rodney was preceded in death by his grandparents, Azell and Roberta Robbs, Will and Frankie McDowell and his brother, Kelvin "KT" Robbs.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: five children, Kenyal Rodgers of Columbia, South Carolina; Jarvis Harris of Charlotte, North Carolina; Olivene Makerson, Esq. (Ricky) of Atlanta, Georgia; Whitney Hoey of Charlotte, North Carolina; and Rodney Paul McDowell of Gaffney, South Carolina; seven grandchildren, Mylik Harris, Yasmine Harris, Jaden Harris, Skylar Harris, Blakely Harris, Harris Makerson, and Ricki Makerson; one great-grandchild, Kadence Bradford; one brother, James McKinhis ney (Verdell); three sisters, Sebrina Dawkins, Audrey Oglesby (Steven), and Jeanetta Jackson (Toney); aunts, Betty McDowell Vernon, Maimie McDowell, Carol McFadden, Mozell Dewberry, Lavern Smith, and Khalilah B. Hameed; uncles, Zeotha R. Hameed and Charles Smith; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 27, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Caroline Allen-Jones and Dr. Michael A. Bridges. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family is receiving friends at the home. No visitation on Thursday. Book of memories available at www.gordonmortuary.com