Patrick E. McDowell

Patrick Ervin McDowell, 70, of Durham, NC, peacefully passed away on Friday, July 24th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Patrick was born on December 12, 1955, in Jacksonville, FL to the late Robert McDowell and Barbara Hamilton. The family moved back to Durham, NC, when Patrick was 3, where he called home for the rest of his life.

Patrick proudly served his country in the United States Navy where he was stationed on the USS Woodrow Wilson submarine as a Rank E3 Seaman, and was later stationed as a Hospital Corpsman at the Beaufort, SC Naval Hospital.

Patrick was talented in carpentry and woodworking, and for many years he worked in roofing, construction and historical restoration. In his later years, he was able to enjoy his passion for cars while working for local automotive companies restoring classic vehicles.

Patrick had many hobbies including; gardening, fishing, hiking, camping and reading his Bible. He loved watching Formula One racing, visiting museums and laying on the beach. Patrick loved to take his dog, Bonnie, on long walks by the river to enjoy nature. Pat loved to feed and watch the birds, deer and other wildlife that came to visit. His cat, Senna, would love to cuddle beside him during warm naps in the sun.

Patrick was kind, humble and was always willing to help those in need. He valued the simple things in life and cared deeply for his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his grandparents, Cecil and Adelle Atkinson, Uncle Belton (Cecil) Atkinson, Brother, Douglas McDowell and his beloved dog, Bonnie.

Patrick McDowell is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Margaret (Peggy) McDowell; daughter, Billie McDowell; sisters, Janice McDowell and Julie McDowell; aunt Caroline Atkinson; and in-laws Monte (Nahed) Davis, Joseph (Kristen) Davis, Michael (Erica) Davis, and Eileen (Andrew) Herrlinger; and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Services will be held on Wednesday, July 29th at 2:00 PM at Hudson Funeral Home, 211 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC 27703. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Durham, NC. Rev. Hugh O’Sheilds will officiate.

The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 12:30 P.M.

Pallbearers will consist of friends and family.

The family will host a Celebration of Life on Thursday, July 30th, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM at Durham Beer Garden, 812 N Mangum St, Durham, NC 27701.

Flowers are acceptable or you may plant a tree in Patrick’s name.