Kay Conely McDowell

Kay Conely McDowell, age 90, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, in Novi, Michigan. She was born in February of 1935, in Howell, Michigan, to Roy and Ada (Funsch) Conely, and grew up in Brighton. After graduating from Brighton High School, Kay earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Home Economics Education from Michigan State University. On December 28, 1957, she married the love of her life, Charles S. McDowell, and together they built a family rooted in faith, love, and education. Kay began her teaching career in Lansing Public Schools and later retired from the Char-Em Intermediate School District Alternative Program for School-Age Parents, where she touched the lives of countless students with her compassion and dedication. She was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Church in Elk Rapids, MI, and Church of the Holy Family in Novi, MI. Kay was also active in her community as a member of P.E.O. Sisterhood, a volunteer with the Father Fred Foundation and St. Vincent de Paul, and a supporter of the Annual Elk Rapids Creativity Center for Children. She loved quilting, reading, and gathering with family, and she cherished her role as a mother and grandmother above all. Kay is survived by her loving daughters: Theresa (Larry Sr.) Thomas and their children Megan and Larry Jr.; and Mary (Kurt) Krueger and their children Derek Schlax, Mark (Karin) Schlax, Claire Krueger, Adam Krueger, and Sophie Krueger. She is also remembered by her sister, Margaret Dixson. Kay was preceded in death by her beloved husband Charles, her parents, her brothers Roy and John (Jack), and her daughter Barbara Nelson. Barbara’s memory lives on through her husband, David, and their children Joanna (Matthew) Enright, Jessica, and Jacob. In total, Kay was the proud grandmother of ten cherished grandchildren, each of whom brought her endless joy. Instate at Holy Family Catholic Church, 24505 Meadowbrook Road, Novi on Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 11:00 AM until time of funeral liturgy 11:30 AM. Memorial contributions may be made in Kay’s honor to the Father Fred Foundation or the American Cancer Society. Kay will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love of learning, her warm generosity, and the quiet strength she carried throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and devotion to her family and community.