Cleo Marie McDowell's Obituary
On November 2, 1942, Cleo Marie was born to parents Cleo and Daisy Mae Jones in East Oakland, CA, the town she proudly called home for decades. Her adolescent years were spent ruling the field of Elmhurst Jr. High School as part of the “Powder Puff Football Team” and dancing in Ruth Beckford’s trailblazing Afro-Haitian dance program in Oakland. After graduating Castlemont High School in 1960 and attending Oakland City College, she worked in the financial sector throughout her career, with tenures at The Federal Reserve Bank, the Bank of California in San Francisco, and ultimately GMAC, where she would retire from. In 1971, Cleo became Marie McDowell after marrying Bobby McDowell Sr., with whom she would spend over 50 loving years.
As Marie put it, her and Bobby “just fit.” With their equally sharp fashion sense, unrivaled tidiness (kitchen counter crumbs beware), hilarious comedic timing, boundless love for their family and friends, they were made for each other. Together, they raised their son, Bobby McDowell Jr. and would see many corners of the globe, including Saint Lucia, Puerto Rico, Puerto Vallarta, London, Italy, and the south of France. Throughout it all, they were surrounded by an ever-widening circle of loved ones.
To every setting, Marie brought with her a beauty, charm, and joy that was impossible to ignore. (as confirmed by a Jet Magazine Beauty contest). From running her own boutique featuring her handmade jewelry, to going out on the town in Oakland or just staying in for a cozy movie night in Brentwood, she carried herself with a grace and self-assurance that made others think “you don’t walk, you glide.” Spending time with Marie involved complimenting her brand-new outfit, laughing at a quip (that may be at your own expense), and feeling a sense of love and support that stays with you forever.
Marie will be missed by her son Bobby McDowell Jr., daughter-in-law Carrie, granddaughters Ramie McDowell and Ashley Lewis, great-grandsons Noah and Owen Lewis, countless nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She joins her husband Bobby McDowell Sr., her parents Cleo and Daisy Mae Jones, sisters Anna and Dolores, brother Billy, aunts, uncles and beloved cousins.
Whether she was Cleo, Marie, Mama Marie, Auntie Ree, or Granny Ree, she made the world a brighter place. She has given us and will continue to give us so much care, wisdom, guidance, laughter, and genuinely beautiful moments. We love you, Marie!
Prayers and love,
Your Loving Family
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