James 'Jay' McDowell

LEE�S SUMMIT, Mo. � James �Jay� McDowell, 64, of Lee�s Summit passed away Monday, Jan. 8, 2018.

Jay was born May 17, 1953, in Madisonville, Kentucky, to James Curtis Sr. and Jessie Wright McDowell.

After high school, he attended Southeast Missouri State University, where he met the love of his life, Ellen Gunter. They were married Dec. 29, 1973.

During his sales career, he earned Salesman of the Year several times from multiple companies. He was an Eagle Scout and enjoyed fishing, golf, sports and having weekly lunches with friends. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially attending Sam�s football and baseball games, Riley�s dance performances and Colton�s soccer events.

Jay was an active member of Connection Point church (First Baptist Raytown), serving as director of the McDowell Bible Study.

Jay will be remembered by his wife of 44 years, Ellen McDowell of Lee�s Summit; daughter, Leeann Murphy of Pleasant Hill, Missouri; mother, Jessie McDowell of Lee�s Summit; and grandchildren Samuel, Riley and Colton.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Jennifer; and his father, J.C.

A visitation and service were held Jan. 14 at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Missouri.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the IPF Foundation or Connection Point Church in Raytown, Missouri.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.