Mr. Arnold LaVan Dowdy, Sr.

Born January 28, 1924 in Jonesboro, Arkansas and passes away peacefully at home December 15, 2011. He was a long time and devoted member of Parkside Baptist Church in Mesquite, TX. He retired as a professional truck driver. He loved to work outdoors and was handy with his hands as well as playing guitar. He also loved horseback riding and trained horses most of his life. He is preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Darthie Dowdy and daughter, Loretta Rose Vallance. He is survived by his loving children: Arnold L. Dowdy, Jr., Deborah Keeping, Jeanie Larsen, Johnny Shutza, Betty Ann Boyd, Peggy Blackerby and Jimmie Moore and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be dearly missed by many. In lieu of flowers family request donations be made to the Bus Ministry of Parkside Baptist Church, 1729 Gross Rd. Mesquite, Texas 75150. Dr. Mike Wells and Dr. Larry May will be officiating.