Mr. Billy Nathaniel McDowell

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way." Psalm 37:23 Billy Nathaniel McDowell was born on March 28, 1936* to the late Charlie and Emmaline McDowell in McComb, Mississippi. Billy received h is formal education in the Pike County School System. Ultimately, he relocated from McComb to Milwaukee, WI. At an early age, Billy professed his faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at Sweet Home Baptist Church in McComb, MS. After moving to Milwaukee, he joined Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church where he remained a member for over 25 years. On January 25, 1976, Billy united in holy matrimony to Barbara J. (Hudson) Givens. Together they created a beautiful blended family with their five children - Lavib, Alnora, Antoinette, Melvin Jr. and Steven. Billy had a career in road construction for much of his livelihood until his retirement. He was skilled and clever, especially when building or repairing· things. Billy, along with Barbara, enjoyed new adventures. They explored the U.S. as well as Canada, Mexico and the at Caribbean for numerous years with their travel club, FUN, Inc. and Roz's Fun Tours. Family vacations were all too common and spending time at the campsite in Rock River Leisure Estates (Edgerton, WI) was the family sanctuary. Billy loved his music. .. especially the Blues, grilling/cooking and just being outdoors. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan/season ticket holder and enjoyed being at Lambeau Field or watching games in the comfort of his recliner at home. Billy was a member of the Walnut Street Club for over 20 years and actively participated in all their annual events and activities.In addition, he volunteered at the Bradley Center to help support the Masonic Temple. Billy Nathaniel McDowell, also lovingly known as "Flash" departed this life and was called to his heavenly home at the handsome age of 87 on Monday, November 6, 2023, while at home surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Emmaline McDowell; children-Lavib Isaac, Melvin D. Givens Jr., and Steven C. Givens; siblings - Carl McDowell, Floyd McDowell, Willie James "Jack" (Hynetia) McDowell Sr., Leroy McDowell, Ernest (Shirley) McDowell, Clara Davis, Charles (Ovuida) McDowell Sr., Anna L. Brumfield, Ruth Helen Todd, and Eddye LaVern (isiah) Gutter-Ruth; and sisters- in-law Cynthia McDowell and Draper Louise McDowell. He leaves to cherish his devoted wife of 47 years, Barbara J. McDowell; loving daughters - Alnora (Marton) Shumpert and Antionette McDowell of Milwaukee, WI, daughter-in-law Susa Givens of Milwaukee, WI; brothers - Willie "Mac" McDowell of Tracy, CA, Jimmie Lee McDowell of Detroit, M I, and Robert Earl "Sonny" McDowell; brother-in-law David (Victoria) Blakely of Caledonia, WI; and sister-in-law Zelma Hudson of Detroit, MI; along with a flock of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and loving friends. Special friends - Willie and Annie Alexander.

Mr. Billy Nathaniel McDowell

March 28, 1936 - November 6, 2023