Oma McDowell

Oma "Merle" McDowell, 97 years old, beloved Mother and Friend was called to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She entered this world on January 30, 1927, born to Verdia and Charnar Branch, in Bellemont, LA.

Oma is survived by her son, Wilburn "Mackie" McDowell (Vicki); daughters, Debi Elkins (Jerry), Zoe LeBlanc; grandchildren, Ashley Elkins, Chris McDowell, and Kimberly Tumlinson; great-grandchildren, Charlie Jr., Jackson, Brock, Everli, Nora, Madeline, Caroline, Isaac, Hattie, Stephanie, Lexi, Dylan, and Cale; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Oma is preceded in death by her husband, Leo McDowell; father, Charnar Branch; mother, Verdia Branch; and numerous brothers and sisters.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Baker Funeral Home, 6401 Groom Road, Baker, LA, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 10:00 AM until the Funeral Service at 1:00 PM. The graveside service and burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, in Baker, LA.