Constance “Connie” Ann McDowell
Constance “Connie” Ann McDowell, born October 1, 1944, in Quincy, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, December 15th, 2025. She was the daughter of Richard C. Seifert Sr. and Marian (Stroot) Seifert.
After having attended three high schools in different states, Connie graduated from Peoria Richwoods High School in 1962 and went on to attend Illinois State University, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished her annual gatherings with friends. In 1966, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education, beginning a vocation that would touch countless lives.
On July 17, 1971, Connie married, James “Jim” McDowell, at St. Francis Solanus Church. They were blessed with 54 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and service.
Connie devoted her career to teaching young children. She taught Head Start in Springfield and Quincy, where she was known as a compassionate, energetic, and loving educator. She later taught kindergarten at St. Mary’s School for 15 years, retiring in 2001 after giving out thousands of hugs and leaving a lasting impact on students and families.
Following retirement, Connie and Jim enjoyed many trips and time with family. A highlight was a memorable family trip to Ireland in 2001. She also treasured an Alaska cruise with close friends and a special girls’ trip to Hawaii. The annual family trips to the Lake of the Ozarks will be remembered fondly.
Connie’s Catholic faith was the foundation of her life, providing guidance, strength, and comfort. She and Jim have been devoted members of Blessed Sacrament Parish (formerly St. Mary’s) for nearly 50 years. Together they enjoyed meeting with various couples for marriage preparation, understanding the beauty and significance of this life long covenant between husband and wife. Connie served as an Eucharistic Minister, and was active in numerous prayer groups and ministries, including Quincy Spirit, TEC, and Cursillo. Through her service and kindness, she provided a beautiful example of Christian living to her family and all who knew her.
In retirement, Connie continued to serve others by volunteering with Ladies of Charity, Birthright, and Blessing Hospital Hospitality House, until her health no longer allowed her to do so. She also previously served on the Cheerful Home Board and the Quincy Notre Dame High School Board, further reflecting her generous spirit.
While Connie loved teaching, her greatest joy came from her roles as mom and grandma. Nothing brought her more happiness than her 12 grandchildren, whose presence lit up her life. She delighted in encouraging them and celebrating each of their accomplishments. The grandchildren will cherish the memories of her big smile and warm hugs.
In addition to her husband, Jim, Connie is survived by her four children: Dr. Christopher McDowell (Lisa) of Springfield, Illinois; Sara Lepper, (the late Tom Lepper); Mark McDowell (Jamie); and John McDowell (Christina), all of Quincy. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Jordan and Brennan Lepper; Stephen, Andrew, Abigail, Jacob, Connor, Lauren, Emma, Clare, Lucy, and Maximilian McDowell. Also surviving is her brother, RC “Rick,” Seifert Jr (Barb) of Wichita, Kansas.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her son-in-law, Tom Lepper.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 9:30 am at Duker and Haugh Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Interment to follow in Greenmount Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 3:00 until 7:00 at the Duker and Haugh Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Blessed Sacrament Catholic School and the Quincy Notre Dame Foundation. The Duker and Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Condlences sent for the McDowell family. I remember meeting Connie at Penny and Bob Musolino’s.
Chris and John I consider friends and know they were a special part of Connie.
May your memories and your faith in God sustain you now and in the days ahead.
Our condolences to the McDowell family and friends. She was a great and sweetest friend even when we left Quincy. May she rest in peace.
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of Connie. We will remember her finally through Quincy spirit
& Cursillo
With deepest sympathy.
We are so sorry to hear of Connie’s passing. To Jim, Mark, Rick & Barb, and all the family our sincere condolences. What a wonderful life and Christian legacy she leaves behind. We will keep all of you in our prayers.
Dear Jim and family.
Many prayers and masses will be said for Connie, may God receive her into eternal peace.
She was a gem, you had the best.
Cousin Paul Geers
Aunt Mary Francis McDowell
Jim, Mark, Sara and McDowell family, My deepest sympathy to everyone. May the beautiful memories of Connie give you strength through this difficult time.
Mrs. McDowell was my favorite (sub) teacher. She had a way of making you feel special. I will always remember her kindness.
My condolences to the McDowell family.
Condolences to the McDowell Family. We are prayering for peace, comfort, and strength for Connie’s family as they navigate the loss of this wonderful lady. She will be missed and fondly remembered by many for years to come.
I am so sad to see that Connie has passed. She was an angel among us. Hugs to Jim and family.
We are sorry to hear of Connie’s passing and love to Jim and all the family. Connie and Jim helped my sister Doris Long and her disabled daughter Chris for many years and they were both so kind and compassionate to them. God bless the McDowell family.
Connie was par excellance in all she sought to be. She was a part of a special staff of educators at St Mary’s when I was in Quincy in the 90’s. All the families who entrusted their little ones to her care had the blessing of her professional and loving expertise. As I shared in youth group with her kids I could always see the great effect she played in raising her great kids and forming them in the faith. She was a soft and tender hearted soul, one of God’s best. “Show by example” was her great legacy. Holy woman of faith. One in a million. Fr Chuck Edwards
Our sincere condolences to Jim and the entire McDowell family. The McDowell are an example of a caring Christian family. We are all better for knowing you.
Chris, Sara, Mark, and John,
I am saddened to hear this news. Your mom was truly a treasure to this world and especially for her many, many kindergartners. She set the standard for what a teacher should be. She loved her family even more. I will pray that God gives you the strength you need in the days ahead, and that HE fills your hearts with the GREAT memories that you created, and shared, with her. God Bless