Benna J. Dowdey

Benna Jean Dowdey beloved by her family and a friend to all who knew her passed away Thursday, March 4, 2021 at the age of 92. She was raised in Huffman as the only daughter of Benjamin and Lillie Jones, and as the Big Sis to three brothers who preceded her in death Deacon, Mack, and Dennis. She attended Woodlawn High School and Howard College where she was a member of the Phi Mu Sorority and a dream girl of the Lambda Chi Fraternity. While at Howard she met and married her husband of 73 years Ivan Charles Dowdey. She is survived by two sons, Dr. Benjamin Dowdey (Susan) and Frank Dowdey (Veronica). She drove to and attended more sporting events in support of her boys than can be counted. Her baseball scorebooks were works of art.

Benna Jean was a lifelong Methodist and served as the organist at Grace United Methodist Church as well as the Director of the Kindergarten for many years. She was a member of the choir at both East Lake United Methodist and her current church, Irondale United Methodist.

Benna Jean made her mark on Birmingham with her time spent working at The Christmas Cottage in Crestline Park and Smith and Hardwick Bookstore in Forest Park. She was beloved by her customers and maintained many of those relationships over the years. Known to most as the Butterfly Lady, she loved all things beautiful, cultivated wonderful gardens, and was a talented baker, which won her many accolades.

Benna Jean most loved her family including her five grandchildren, Brandi Watson (Christian), David Letson (Dana), Leah Harrigan (Chris), Frank Dowdey II (Eric), and Amy Dowdey (John Robbins), six great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren.

Due to Covid-19, the family will hold a private graveside service. Remembrances may be made to Leeds First United Methodist Church Children’s Choir Camp Fund, 7833 Parkway Drive SE, Leeds, Al, 35094 or Irondale United Methodist Church, 400 Deering Street, Irondale, Al, 35210.