Hugh Edward Mcdowell

Hugh McDowell was born on December 21,1943 and died, Friday, July 24, 2026, with his wife, Sara, holding him in her arms. He was the son of Dennis J. McDowell and Leola Bishop McDowell. He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, and friend. The world is a better place because God sent Hugh to us for 82 years.

Hugh was a quiet, humble man. He grew up on a peach farm in Cooley Springs, S.C. He accepted Jesus Christ as his savior in 1954 and was baptized at Cooley Springs Baptist Church. He was ordained there as deacon in 1969.

Hugh was a member of Boiling Springs Baptist Church and a member of the Bill Howell Sunday School class. He loved and appreciated every member of his class. We had so many happy times of fellowship with our friends. Hugh has been a deacon at BSFBC since 1976. He has served on numerous committees, always willing to work where needed. You didn't have to ask if Hugh was a Christian, he lived his testimony every day.

Hugh was a graduate of Chesnee High School, Spartanburg Methodist college, USC Retail Banking School and University of Virginia, Charlottesville Consumer Banking School.

Hugh began his banking career at Spartanburg Bank and Turst (Bank of America). He worked there for 20 years. He ended his banking career at First Federal of Spartanburg (Truist), where he worked for 14 years. Just a few weeks ago while out for dinner with friends, a gentleman came to our table, shook Hugh's hand, and thanked him for helping him buy his first car and first home. This same thing happened many, many times.

Hugh also served his community as president of the Boiling Springs Chamber of Commerce. He served on the District Two School Board, the Spartanburg County Board of Education, and the Swofford Vocational School Board. He also served 6 years in the South Carolina National Guard.

Hugh is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sara Page McDowell. "He sang good morning to me every morning. He made me so happy." He is also survived by his special children: Dennis Hugh McDowell (Amy) and Holly Page McDowell (Matt Favazza). He loved his children unconditionally. He smiled with joy each time he heard their voices or saw them when they came to visit. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Bill Westbrook and Michael Page (Teresa), sister-in-law Barbara P. Bralley, nephews Stanley McDowell (Judy) and Jay Westbrook (Cynthia) and our faithful friends, Charles and Linda Branan. He was preceded by his parents Dennis and Leola McDowell, his sister Josephine M. Westbrook, and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Milton "Bud" and Alsie Page, who loved him like a son.

A visitation will be held at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Boiling Springs First Baptist Church with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM with Rev. Dr. Hank Williams officiating. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to BSFBC Debt Reduction Fund, 3600 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs, SC 29316