Patricia Ann McDowell

Patricia Ann McDowell, lovingly known as “Pat”, was born on July 21, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Sallie Mae Jackson and Willie Coleman Jackson Sr. She peacefully transitioned on May 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of those whose lives she touched so deeply. Pat was raised with faith, resilience, humor, and a heart for helping others—qualities that would become the foundation of the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. She was a proud graduate of Olive-Harvey College, where she earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice. Pat dedicated most of her professional life serving as a Teacher’s Aide to special needs children, where she offered patience, care, and compassion to those who needed it most. She also worked part-time at Heinz Drugstore, where her warmth and unmistakable personality made lasting impressions. A devoted Christian and God-fearing woman, Pat loved the Lord and believed deeply in faith, kindness, and helping others whenever possible. Pat was funny, outspoken, loving, and the kind of woman who never met a stranger and never let anyone leave hungry. If there was one thing Pat was going to do - it was feed people. She had a true gift in the kitchen and loved creating meals she proudly called “Pat’s Creations.” Whether it was family, friends, neighbors, or someone simply in need, Pat never let anyone leave hungry. She often joked that she “wasn’t rich and famous,” but anyone who knew her understood that her true riches lived in her generosity. As long as she had food in her house, she made sure no one went without. She fed many, she clothed many, and she counseled many; offering wisdom, encouragement, and support whenever it was needed most. Pat lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and love for others. Pat was vibrant, funny, and unapologetically herself. She didn’t bite her tongue, had a sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest room, and had a way of making people laugh when they needed it most. She loved watching football and cheering for her beloved Chicago Bears, shopping—especially on QVC—and had a deep appreciation for colorful things, from clothing to household appliances. She also had a special love for Betty Boop, whose bold spirit and playful charm fit Pat perfectly. And if you knew Pat, you knew that orange was her color—bright, warm, vibrant, and impossible to ignore, much like the beautiful spirit she carried. More than anything, Pat cherished family. She was a devoted daughter, a motherly support to many, the favorite auntie, the favorite cousin, a loyal friend, and above all, the best mother her children could ever ask for and a deeply beloved “Grandma-Ma” to her grandchildren. Her love was fierce, unconditional, and unwavering. Pat was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Willie Jackson Sr. and Sallie Mae Jackson, and her siblings Bertha Marie Jackson, Robert Campbell, and Charles Jackson. To cherish her precious memory, Pat leaves her loving children: Roddy McDowell Jr., affectionately known as “Mack” (Latoya McDowell) and Sheree Lanay Crayton, affectionately known as “Angel” (Terence Crayton). She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren: Karion Cook, Ayden McDowell, Zion McDowell, Rahiem McDowell, Josh Glover, Yael Crayton, Yara Crayton, and Liam McDowell; and her cherished great-grandchild, Daventae Cook. Pat is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Willa Hinton (Donnie Hinton), Vanessa Campbell, Gerletha Jackson, Willie Jackson Jr., Barnard Campbell, and Donald Jackson. She also shared an especially treasured bond with her beloved “Sister Cousins” — Demetrice Wilkes and Mary Taggart— whose love, laughter, and lifelong connection held a special place in her heart. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing Pat is reunited with those who went before her—welcomed with love by family and friends into eternal peace. Her table was always open, her laughter unforgettable, and her love never ran out. Well done, thy good and faithful servant. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1

Patricia Ann McDowell

July 21, 1953 - May 15, 2026