Jerry W. McDowell, age 78, of Vandalia, IL passed away Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Jerry was born May 3, 1947 in Vandalia, IL, the son of James Willard and Betty Irene (Edwards) McDowell. He married Connie Lynn Craig on February 5, 1967. She passed away on November 25, 2015. Jerry worked as an insurance agent in Vandalia for 40 years. He was a past member of the First Christian Church in Vandalia, and was active with the Vandalia Rotary Club for many years. He very much enjoyed reading his bible, as well as, going on walks and playing golf. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his sons, Todd (Melissa) McDowell of Glen Carbon, IL and Greg (Jolene) McDowell of Millstadt, IL; grandchildren, Joshua, Jennifer, Lauren and Lucas; great grandchildren, Barrett and Nolan; brothers, Mike (Ellen) McDowell of Louisville, GA and Lynn (Shelley) McDowell of Vandalia, IL; sisters, Carolyn (Nelson) Powell of Brownstown, IL and Connie Chapman of Vandalia, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim & Betty; wife, Connie McDowell; sister, Sheryl McDowell; and brother-in-law, David Chapman.

A visitation will be held Friday, November 14, 2025 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Miller Funeral Home in Vandalia, IL. A private burial will take place at a later time at Fairlawn Cemetery, Vandalia, IL. Memorial donations may be made to Lighthouse Pregnancy Center, CEFS Fayette County Outreach, and/or to your local food pantry. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net.