Mrs.  Shirley Mae Thomas McDowell, age 66, passed from this life on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at approximately 11:15 a.m. at Lima memorial Health Systems.

She was born on October 17, 1949 in Lima, Ohio to James and Ola Mae (Stewart) Thomas, Sr.  Her father is deceased and her Mother; Ola Mae Armstead survives in Lima.

In 1992 she was united in holy matrimony to Mr. Lamar McDowell who survives in Lima.

Mrs. McDowell worked as a cook for the Old Barn Out Back for over 20 years.   She accepted Christ at an early age.  She was truly loved and will be missed by her family.

Besides her loving husband Lamar she leaves to cherish her precious memory 2 sons; Tyronne Simmons and Orlando Lawrence both of Lima.  A daughter; Shonda Thomas of Lima.  A special daughter; Regina Scales of Lima.  7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. A grandson; Tyronne Florence whom she raised.  3 brothers; James Thomas, Jr. and Edward Glen Thomas both of Lima.  Eugene Burks (Tammy) of Ypsilanti, MI.   A step-brother; Johnnie Armstead (Nadine) of Lima.  A sister;  Lisa Armstead of Lima.  2 step-sisters; Kaylean Watkins (Willie) and Darnille Armstead both of Lima.  A special friend; Maurita Williams of Lima.  Special friend;  Jason Vogt.

She was preceded in death by a son; Cori Thomas. 2 special grandsons; Khylil Keshawn Florence and De'Veon Da'Jior Petaway.  A brother; James Lee Stewart.

Home going services will be held on, Friday, May 27, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Arnold Manley, officiating.

Visitation/Wake will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016  from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. where the family will be present from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Jones-Clark Funeral Home, Inc.

Interment:  Woodlawn Cemetery