Joan Margaret Harris McDowell, age 75, of Owings, MD passed away April 19, 2014 at Washington Hospital Center. She was born January 18, 1939 in Hillside, MD to Clarence and Edith Elizabeth (Meyer) Harris. She was raised in Prince George's County and graduated from Frederick Sasscer High School, class of 1957.

Joan married Albert William McDowell on August 3, 1974 at Riverdale Baptist Church in Riverdale, MD. The couple made their home in Upper Marlboro, until moving to Owings in 1985. Joan joined her family in owning and operating Meadows Market and Restaurant in Upper Marlboro until her retirement in 1986.

Joan was an excellent cook and was known for her spaghetti, chili, barbeque, and vegetable soup. She was an active member of Grace Brethren Church of Calvert County. She was also active in and a mentor with the Melwood Center. When Joan was younger, she enjoyed bowling and ceramics. In more recent years, her pleasures were to spoil her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers Paul and Bernard Harris.

Surviving are her husband Albert W. McDowell, Sr. of Owings, MD; three sons Albert W. "Buddy" McDowell, Jr. and his wife Cissy, Richard L. McDowell and Jeffrey O. McDowell and his wife Sharon, all of St. Leonard, MD. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Justin, Ashley, Jordan, Cassidy and Gabrielle McDowell; a great-granddaughter Marlee Abner and a sister Helen Moore of Owings, MD.

Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Home.