John Dowell-Smith

(From Parker Mortuary)

John Dowell-Smith, age 52, of Joplin, passed away June 21, 2017 after a long illness.

John was born January 16, 1965 to Bette (Pierson) Dowell Smith and Cecil R. Dowell in Joplin. He was a lifelong resident. John was a professional auto body/ paint man and certified auto inspector. He owned his own shop, John's Auto Body, at the age of 18; he continued his profession until his illness became too bad.

John is survived by his siblings, Bobby Dowell, of Florida, Ronnie Dowell, and his wife, Samone, of Carl Junction, Steve Dowell, and his wife Ramona, of Carl Junction, Tim Dowell, and his wife, Lisa, of Utah, William Smith, of Joplin, Tammy Osborn, and her husband, Leroy, of Wyandotte, Kandi Anderson, and her husband, Donnie, of Carthage, and Piper Ficken ,and her husband Mike, of Cabool. He is also survived by his adopted father, Don Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews including three especially close, Katie Smith, Austin Smith, and Angel Benge.

John was preceded in death by his parents and a beloved niece, Meaghann.

All who knew John will remember his funny and sometimes stupid sense of humor, like when he would tell a young family member "Call me an orange." "Are you an orange?" "No!" Some of his last words were "Johnny Bondo says May the 4th be with you!"

John’s family will be hosting a pot luck memorial dinner at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 30th at McClelland Park with John’s Uncle Jerry Williams officiating. Friends and family are asked to please bring a covered dish and memories.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.