Robert W. McDowell

Robert W. McDowell, 85, a lifelong resident of Pepperell, MA passed away at the Blaire House of Tewksbury on November 9, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on August 5, 1939, in Pepperell, he was the youngest son of seven boys of James M. McDowell and Alice M. (Shepard) McDowell. Bobby graduated from Pepperell High School class of 1957.

Bobby was predeceased by his wife of 63 years Lillian M. (Tumpney) McDowell on March 8, 2024. He is survived by his two daughters, Cynthia (Cindy) Anne Mershon and her husband George, and Linda Marie Sheehan and her husband Timothy; four grandchildren Megan (Sheehan) Hayes her husband Kevin, Ryan Sheehan, Rachel Mershon, Robert Mershon and his partner Amanda Milinazzo, and great granddaughter on the way; two great grandsons Connor and Robert Hayes. He is also survived by two brothers, Herman McDowell, Joseph McDowell, and brother-in-law Harold (Rabbit) Pillsbury and sister-in-law Nancy McDowell.

Bobby was predeceased by his daughter, Donna Lynne McDowell in 1964; his brothers Norman McDowell, Arthur McDowell, John McDowell and Daniel McDowell; his sister-in-law Virginia (Ginger) Pillsbury and brother-in-law Richard Tumpney Jr.

Bobby married the love of his life Lilly on July 2, 1960. Together they created a loving family. His biggest joy was spending time with his family, he spent countless hours on the fields watching his children and grandchildren playing sports. Bobby and Lilly traveled many times over the years to Prince Edward Island to visit with his family, they cherished all those trips. He was also a member of Union Local 534, he worked 43 years and retired from St. Regis and James River of Pepperell. He loved the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots; Bob was also an avid reader.

To know Bobby was to love Bobby. He was very kindhearted and cherished his friends and family members.

Visiting hours will be held in the McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main St. (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Tuesday, November 19th from 12 – 2 pm, with a funeral service to follow at 2 pm. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Pepperell.