Paula Geraldine "Geri" McDowell

Paula Geraldine "Geri" Brock McDowell, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. Her life was marked by fierce love, unwavering faith, and a courageous spirit that inspired everyone who knew her.

Geri was born to the late Foster Brock and Rose (Lay) Brock and was raised in Berea, Kentucky. The values instilled in her during those early years-faith, resilience, kindness, and loyalty to family-shaped the remarkable woman she became.

She later made her home in Lexington, Kentucky, where she built a life centered around family and faith. Geri is survived by her beloved husband, Thomas George McDowell, with whom she shared deep companionship and devotion.

Earlier in life, Geri was married to Douglas Heinemeyer, and together they welcomed their son, Bryan Scott Brock Heinemeyer. Geri's pride in Scott was immeasurable. She warmly embraced Scott's wife, Ashley Heinemeyer, as a daughter, and cherished her role as "Gigi" to their two children, Natalie Kate and Foster Brock.

Geri and Tom later expanded their family through adoption, welcoming their daughter, Victoria Nycolle McDowell Glenn. Tori is married to John Calvin Glenn, and together they have two beautiful daughters, Shilo Nycolle and Rosie Mae. Gigi treasured every moment spent watching her grandchildren grow.

Blessed through her marriage to Tom, Geri gained a bonus daughter, granddaughter and grandson. Geri is survived by Tom's daughter Jill McDowell Bushee, her husband Rich Bushee, and their two wonderful children, Adam Richard and Emily Faith Ley, (Saige Ley). She was preceded in death by Tom's second daughter, Jenny McDowell.

Geri is also survived by her sister, Anna Noland, and Anna's husband, Charles Noland, along with their children Jimmy Noland, Missy Miles, and Teresa Schoborg. Geri was a loving and devoted aunt who maintained close bonds with her extended family.

Geri lived her life with a fierce commitment to the people she loved. She fought bravely through illness with both tenacity and grace. Her journey with terminal disease became a testimony of faith and strength. Geri sought wisdom through her physicians while placing her ultimate trust in the supreme wisdom of her Creator. Her courage and perseverance became a beacon of hope and encouragement for others facing difficult diagnoses.

Those who knew Geri will remember her for her warmth, her fierce loyalty to family, her quick wit, and the deep love she poured into the lives of those around her. She supported her family wholeheartedly and never stopped believing in the goodness and purpose God places in every life.

Geri's legacy will live on through her deep relationships. Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

A 12pm service will take place Friday, March 20, at Man O War Church of God, burial will follow at The Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30am to 12:00pm, at the church.

Pallbearers honoring Geri's life will be Foster Heinemeyer, Adam Bushee, Barry Brock, Robbie Brock, Ethan Miles, and Tim Beardsley.

Donations can be made to the UK Markey Cancer Center, Or in support of Geri's love for canines. Her adored pet dog, Squeakers, was a faithful companion that kept her company for many years, donations can be made to the Lexington Humane Society.