Grayson Lavon Dowdy passed away peacefully on July 16, 2023, in Ellsinore, Missouri. Born on April 16, 1933, in Paragould, Arkansas, Grayson lived a full and vibrant life of 90 years.

Raised by his loving parents, Leonard and Lola Dowdy, Grayson was the third of six children. He was a caring son and a strong influence to his younger siblings during his mother's prolonged illness.  He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles and Buford Dowdy, and is survived by his sister, Irene Evans. Grayson also leaves behind his brothers and sisters-in-law, Jr and Carolyn Dowdy, and Billy Joe and Elanore Dowdy.

Grayson's life was blessed, having been married to the late Patsy Dowdy.  Grayson is survived by his children, Trish and Kenny Sellinger, Dean and Melissa Dowdy, and Chris and Anne Dowdy, who will forever remember him as a devoted father. He was a proud grandfather to 18 grandchildren, a great-grandfather to 45 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandfather to 12 great-great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through them.

Grayson was a man of service and hard work. His service in the U.S. Army instilled in him a sense of duty and discipline, which he carried throughout his life. He then embarked on a diverse career journey. He worked as a carpenter, sharing his skills by teaching carpentry on an Indian Reservation. He ventured into the oil industry, working on oil rigs. Grayson also found joy in the simplicity of life as a cattle farmer. He owned a store, Dowdy's Bait Shop and Grocery, on New Ditch by the St. Francis River, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.

A man of simple pleasures, Grayson found joy in camping, especially the hearty meals that came with it. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, finding peace in the tranquility of nature. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family, creating memories that will be treasured forever. His faith was an important aspect of his life; he was a member of the Cornerstone Church and held the Baptist Faith close to his heart.

The family will receive friends Friday, July 21, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home.  A graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 22, at Good Hope Cemetery in Grandin, Missouri.  Wesley Sharp, III, will be officiating.

Dean Dowdy, Chris Dowdy, Alex Dowdy, Jason Dowdy, Jessie Dowdy, and Daniel Williams will serve as pallbearers.