Elsie Brannon Cudd McDowell

Elsie Brannon Cudd McDowell, 98 of Chesnee, SC, passed away on March 4, 2025. She has been living in Vermont with her granddaughter and family since 2023. Elsie was born on February 23, 1927, in Cherokee, SC.
Elsie was the daughter of John Earl and Bessie Henderson Brannon and was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She was predeceased by brothers Broadus (Wilma), John (Evelyn), Eugene (Elizabeth), Boyce (Ruth), and Claude, and by sisters Grace, Virginia (Barney), and Ruth (James).
She graduated from Chesnee High School, and was a 1984 graduate of Wofford College, Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa at the age of 57.
Elsie worked for seven years at Chesnee Cash Depository, which later became Arthur State Bank. She was then employed as the administrative assistant to the treasurer of Converse College for twelve years. She then worked as the administrative assistant to the Vice President for Business at Wofford College for twenty-six years. Elsie and her husband, Augus, were dedicated members of Arrowwood Baptist Church in Chesnee, SC.
Elsie and August both lost their first spouses. Elsie had one son, William, and August had two sons, Daniel and Craig. They were married on June 3, 1965, and went on to raise their boys together in the home that August built. They had a farm and grew strawberries, cantaloup, watermelons, and many vegetables. The McDowell farm supplied much of Spartanburg County with fresh produce and was loved by many.
Elsie was predeceased by her spouse, Leonard August McDowell, and a granddaughter, Lindsay Taylor McDowell. She is survived by a son, William Albert Cudd, III, and stepsons, Daniel August McDowell (Nancy), and Craig Leonard McDowell (Kim). Elsie is also survived by six grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at Arrowwood Baptist Church in Chesnee, SC, on April 22, 2025, at 11:30. In lieu of flowers, it was Elsie's wish that donations be made to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice. 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641 or The Golden Arrows at Arrowwood Baptist Church. 1410 SC-11, Chesnee, SC 29323.
The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.