James Michael "Mike" Dowell, 56 of Damascus, Va., passed away Monday, August 28th, 2017, at his home after a courageous battle against kidney and liver disease.

He was a native of Kingsport Tenn. and the son of the late James William Dowell and Hazel Dowell Byrd.

He served in the US Navy, then made his career in Restaurant Management until becoming disabled in 2006. He was a member of One Way Ministries in Damascus and volunteered in the Food Outreach and Trail Days Ministries.

A Special thanks to Dr. Handy, Dr. Henry, Dr. Kyi, Frecenius Dialysis- Marion, Cindy McCall, Hometown Hospice and Richardsons Ambulance for your care and compassion to Mike during his illness.

Survivors include Darrell Ritchie, friend, of the home; four sisters, Sandra K Al-Khaja, Clarkston GA, Betty Jean Dowell, Lawrenceville GA, Patsy Dowell Sims, Kingsport Tenn., Jacqueline (Gary) Gibson, Kingsport, Tenn.; step brother, Dennis Byrd, Kingsport Tenn. and step sister, Syntha Lorenz, Cobb, Cal., several nieces, nephews, family, friends, & his faithful dog, Emily also survive.

A memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, September 16th, 2017 with Pastor Gary Ritchie officiating at One Way Ministries, 1004 S Shady Ave, Damascus, Va. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Fellowship dinner immediately following (casual dress).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to One Way Ministries, c/o Patty Prater, PO Box 640, Damascus, Va. 24236, to help offset the cost of final expenses.