Clarence McDowell

Clarence Percival McDowell was born on June 16, 1941, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Lucius and Jessie Rutledge McDowell. He was the third son born to this union. Clarence spent his early formative years in the Bronx, New York, before relocating with his family at the age of twelve to Rochester, New York. There, he attended and graduated from Madison High School. During his high school years, Clarence was actively involved in sports, excelling particularly in baseball as a talented pitcher. His skill on the mound even drew professional interest, though that path did not ultimately materialize. Nevertheless, his love for sports remained a constant throughout his life. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and, in later years, became a devoted and unwavering Cincinnati Bengals enthusiast. Many fond memories were made watching him enjoy games in his beloved “man cave.”

Clarence’s love for music was just as enduring as his love for sports. He had a deep and unwavering appreciation for music that spanned his entire lifetime. From jazz to old school R&B to gospel, he loved it all the same. On any given day, you could catch him dancing, singing, or effortlessly catching a beat—bringing joy and rhythm into every space he entered.

At a young age, Clarence accepted Christ and attended Aenon Baptist Church with his mother in Rochester, New York. His faith would remain a guiding force throughout his life.

In the 1960s, Clarence was deeply engaged as an activist and community organizer in Rochester. He worked with the FIGHT organization (Freedom, Integration, God, Honor, Today) under the leadership of Reverend Franklin Florence, a protégé of Saul Alinsky. Through this work, Clarence helped advocate for economic justice, contributing to efforts that led Eastman Kodak to hire and train Black workers. He also played a role as a mediator during the negotiations surrounding the Attica uprising, and he participated in numerous marches and protests, standing firmly for equality and justice.

In April 1970, Clarence was united in marriage to Claudia. Together, they built a loving, blended family and shared 56 years of happiness, partnership, and devotion. Clarence was best known for the deep love he showed to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was the embodiment of love, strength, and unwavering commitment—a true “Superman” to his family.

Clarence dedicated 25 years of service as a union insulator with Local 8, traveling across the country working on nuclear plants. After retiring, he continued his strong work ethic with the Metro Bus Company, where he served for 10 years before retiring once again. He later found fulfillment in working with EMRI, assisting individuals with developmental challenges through transportation and care. His retirement years were spent traveling and cruising around the world with his beloved wife.

Clarence was a faithful member of Quinn Chapel AME Church, where he served under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Frederick Wright and Reverend Dr. Jermaine Covington. He humbly held many roles within the church, including President of the Usher Board, member of the security team, trustee, and participant in the Men’s Ministry. He also took great pride in guiding and supporting his great-grandchildren Janiyah, Joshua, and Jelaina through many youth ministries within Quinn Chapel. He loved his church deeply and was known for his kindness, compassion, and servant’s heart. He especially cherished singing with the men’s choir on Men’s Day and found great joy in serving the Lord.

Clarence’s greatest joy in life was his family and his faith. His legacy is one of love, service, and strength, and he leaves behind a family who were profoundly blessed by his presence. During his final days, Clarence was lovingly and diligently cared for by his wife and his granddaughter, Kirsten, along with the compassionate staff of Advanced Healthcare of Cincinnati and hospice care. He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by dignity, comfort, and love, in the home he cherished for fifty years—a place that was truly his haven.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents Lucious and Jessie McDowell, brothers: Matthew, James (Dorthy), and Melvin. He is survived by and leaves behind to cherish his memory: his Wife, Claudia; his Children: Kelvin, Janice (Ron), Taralyn, Tyrone (Kim), Vickie, Pamela, and Jocelyn; Nineteen grandchildren; over 50 great & great-great grandchildren; sister in laws: Dorthy (Pat), Brenda, and Phyllis; nieces and nephews; and a host of loved ones, church members, extended family, friends and coworkers.

All have been blessed to know such a beautiful soul. Submitted in love by his family.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” 

Matthew 25:23

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