Published on November 18, 2025 7:28 am
Last Updated on November 18, 2025 7:28 am
Carolyn Elane McDowell, a beacon of love and devotion, passed away peacefully at the age of 73 on November 16, 2025, at Willow Breeze Hospice House in Mattoon, Illinois.
Born in Shelbyville, on January 23, 1952, to the late Dewey and Eva “Sally” (Dial) Sarver. Carolyn’s life was a tapestry of deep family bonds, lifelong learning, and unwavering faith spent in the Cowden area.
As a young woman, Carolyn’s heart was captured by Larry Dean McDowell, a charming young man she met at a sock hop during their high school years. Their love story was one for the ages, leading them to the altar on August 15, 1969. The couple’s journey through life was filled with love, laughter, and dedication, celebrating 56 wonderful years of marriage.
Carolyn’s legacy is lovingly carried on by her devoted husband, Larry, and their two children, David (Melissa) McDowell and Deana (Adam) Hunt. She was the adored matriarch of a large and vibrant family, including her 12 grandchildren: Kadence, Elijah, Joseph, Rowan, Benjamin, Johnathon, Reese, Faith, Chiana, Aeryn, Ian, and Alexandra. Carolyn’s nurturing spirit and lessons of kindness continue to resonate with all who knew her. Her commitment to education was evident not only in her pursuit of an associate degree in accounting from Lake Land Community College in 2002 but also in her decision to homeschool her children. This choice reflected her belief in the power of personalized education and her dedication to her family’s growth and development.
Carolyn’s faith was the cornerstone of her existence, and she felt called to share the message of Jesus with everyone she met. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Carolyn also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as caring for her dogs and chickens, taking scenic drives through the countryside, stopping at every Walmart along the way, and expressing her creativity through sewing and quilting. Each stitch, whether in fabric or in the lives of those she loved, was made with care and intention.
Funeral services will be held at noon Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Cowden. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in rural Cowden.
The family invites family and friends to join them at the Herrick Community Center for a luncheon following the burial. Memorials in Carolyn’s honor may be made to SBL Willow Breeze Hospice House or WJLY Christian Radio in Ramsey and may be mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565.
Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.