Jessica Dowds

MORTON – Jessica Elizabeth Dowds, 48, of Morton, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025. She was born on April 25, 1977, in Peoria, Illinois, to Roger and Carla Lamer. She married Richard Dowds on May 10, 2003, in East Peoria, Illinois.
Jessica is survived by her husband, Richard Dowds of Morton; children, Bree Dowds and Boston Dowds both of Morton; mother, Carla Lamer of Pekin; siblings, Leslie (Ryan) Morris of Pekin, Rachel Wendell of North Carolina, and Jason (Jaclyn) Lamer of Pekin; many nieces and nephews; mother and father-in-law, Larry and Margaret Dowds; and sisters-in-law, Sarina (Donnie) Wieburg of Florida and Hollie (John) Raymer of East Peoria. She was preceded in death by her father, Roger Lamer; grandparents, Jason and Marjorie Hopkins and Robert Lamer and Dorothy Hall, and brother-in-law, Jeff Wendell.
Jessica was a proud and loving mother and wife whose presence lit up any room. She never knew a stranger-bold, outgoing, and easy to talk to, she made everyone feel welcome in her company. The warmth of the sun was her happy place, and she found joy in tending to her vegetable garden and flowers. She loved sharing her homemade salsa, a gift from her kitchen that carried her warmth and care. Jessica enjoyed life's simple pleasures-spending time with friends and family, playing board games, and cherishing moments of laughter and connection. Her heart lit up when friends and family shared their stories, and she found true joy in celebrating their achievements. Her genuine happiness for others was a rare and beautiful gift. Jessica was never without the companionship of her beloved dogs, who followed her everywhere. Their devotion was a reflection of her gentle heart and the love she poured into those around her.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton. A visitation will be held prior to the memorial service from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. A private burial will be held at Hirstein Cemetery in Morton.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Tazewell Animal Protective Society.
Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements. To leave an online condolence for the family visit www.knappjohnson.com.