Virginia Ann Dowdy

Virginia Ann Dowdy, 88, of Ocklawaha, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on August 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Virginia was born on May 15, 1938, in Rush, Kentucky. Although she and Charles lived in Ohio for many years, they made Ocklawaha their home.

Virginia was a devoted wife, mother, nanu, sister, and cherished friend. She shared a deep and loving bond with her husband and soulmate, Charles Dowdy, who preceded her in death.

Virginia was a faithful member of Ocklawaha Baptist Church. She loved her church family and found great joy in worship and fellowship. She also enjoyed playing her guitar, tending to her garden, and spending time with her family and friends. She loved her cat, Mindy, her cherished companion.

She is survived by her daughters, Connie (Bill) Lewis, and Janice Waters; her grandchildren, Jason (Libbe LeFever) Lewis, Matt Lewis, Herman (Margaret) Applewhite, Tammy (Brandon Bell) Lewis, and Catherine (Jimmy) Hammett; her great grandchildren, Courtney Cannaday, Sage Gant, Dion Lewis, Emily Lewis, Audrey and Colton Hammett, and Bryce Bell; her brothers, Willard and Ernie Whitley; many beloved nieces and nephews and dear friends, especially Marie, Nancy, and Matthew.

Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Dowdy; her parents, Clara Belle, and Hiram Whitley; her brother, Raymond, Vernon and Joe Whitley; her sister, Catherine Rigsby; and her great-granddaughter Hailey Cannaday.

Virginia's love, faith, kindness, and devotion to her family will be deeply missed.

Though she is no longer with them, her memory, her faith, her music, her garden, her beloved Mindy, and the love she gave so freely-will remain in their hearts forever.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by the funeral service at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home in Belleview, Florida with Pastor Gene officiating. Burial will follow at Ocklawaha Community Cemetery.

The family of Virginia wishes to extend our sincere thanks to our awesome team from Hospice of Marion County.