Constance A. McDowell

Constance "Connie" Ann McDowell, born October 1, 1944, in Quincy, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, December 15th, 2025. She was the daughter of Richard C. Seifert Sr. and Marian (Stroot) Seifert.

After having attended three high schools in different states, Connie graduated from Peoria Richwoods High School in 1962 and went on to attend Illinois State University, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished her annual gatherings with friends. In 1966, she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education, beginning a vocation that would touch countless lives.

On July 17, 1971, Connie married, James "Jim" McDowell, at St. Francis Solanus Church. They were blessed with 54 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Connie devoted her career to teaching young children. She taught Head Start in Springfield and Quincy, where she was known as a compassionate, energetic, and loving educator. She later taught kindergarten at St. Mary's School for 15 years, retiring in 2001 after giving out thousands of hugs and leaving a lasting impact on students and families.

Following retirement, Connie and Jim enjoyed many trips and time with family. A highlight was a memorable family trip to Ireland in 2001. She also treasured an Alaska cruise with close friends and a special girls' trip to Hawaii. The annual family trips to the Lake of the Ozarks will be remembered fondly.

Connie's Catholic faith was the foundation of her life, providing guidance, strength, and comfort. She and Jim have been devoted members of Blessed Sacrament Parish (formerly St. Mary's) for nearly 50 years. Together they enjoyed meeting with various couples for marriage preparation, understanding the beauty and significance of this life long covenant between husband and wife. Connie served as an Eucharistic Minister, and was active in numerous prayer groups and ministries, including Quincy Spirit, TEC, and Cursillo. Through her service and kindness, she provided a beautiful example of Christian living to her family and all who knew her.

In retirement, Connie continued to serve others by volunteering with Ladies of Charity, Birthright, and Blessing Hospital Hospitality House, until her health no longer allowed her to do so. She also previously served on the Cheerful Home Board and the Quincy Notre Dame High School Board, further reflecting her generous spirit.

While Connie loved teaching, her greatest joy came from her roles as mom and grandma. Nothing brought her more happiness than her 12 grandchildren, whose presence lit up her life. She delighted in encouraging them and celebrating each of their accomplishments. The grandchildren will cherish the memories of her big smile and warm hugs.

In addition to her husband, Jim, Connie is survived by her four children: Dr. Christopher McDowell (Lisa) of Springfield, Illinois; Sara Lepper, (the late Tom Lepper); Mark McDowell (Jamie); and John McDowell (Christina), all of Quincy. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Jordan and Brennan Lepper; Stephen, Andrew, Abigail, Jacob, Connor, Lauren, Emma, Clare, Lucy, and Maximilian McDowell. Also surviving is her brother, RC "Rick," Seifert Jr (Barb) of Wichita, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son-in-law, Tom Lepper.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 9:30 am at Duker and Haugh Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Interment to follow in Greenmount Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 3:00 until 7:00 at the Duker and Haugh Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Blessed Sacrament Catholic School and the Quincy Notre Dame Foundation. The Duker and Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.