Norma “Gayle” McDowell, 84, of Owensboro passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025, under the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of W. Kentucky. Gayle was born August 17, 1940, to the late Paul and Eva Wheeler. She graduated from Hartford High School, class of 1958. Gayle enjoyed dancing and was talented on the piano, playing for the East Hartford Baptist Church, Keenagers, weddings, and her fellow residents at Park Regency. She also enjoyed writing poems and short stories. Her family fondly remembers how fun she was making the holidays special with her high-end butter cookies and other treats. Gayle was friendly and outgoing, never meeting a stranger, and loved all her friends at Park Regency.
In addition to her parents, Gayle also was preceded in death by her sister, Sherry Atherton.
Those left to cherish her memory include her two daughters, Teresa Maske (Frank) and Liz Russell, both of Owensboro; two grandchildren, Natalie Forman (Clay) and Brett Russell; three great grandchildren, Cameron Forman, Lainey Russell, Ryleigh Bevil; several nieces and a nephew. The family wants to express sincere appreciation to all the Hospice nurses who cared for Gayle with love and compassion.
The funeral service will be at 2:00 pm Monday, April 14 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory with same day visitation from noon until the time of the service. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Ohio County.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care of W. Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301.
Condolences and memories for Gayle’s family may be left at www.glenncares.com.