Martha Jean McDowell, 86, Adrian, MO, died Tuesday, July 4, 2017 at Adrian Manor. Graveside memorial services were held Tuesday, July 11, 2017 at Crescent Hill Cemetery in Adrian. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eastern Star Scholarship Fund, c/o Atkinson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 325, Adrian, MO 64720.

Martha was born April 1, 1931 in Post, Texas, the daughter of John E. and Bessie Mae (Clevenger) Thomas. She was one of nine children: Oscar, J.E., W.L., Frank, Vandon, Virginia, Hazel, and one brother that died at childbirth. She married John Elliot Smith and had four children: Larry Wayne, Vandon Kirk, Deborah Jean, and James Edwards. She married Harry Mitchell (Red) McDowell; he had five children: Sharon, Jan, Carol, Lizzie, and Jim. She has many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Martha and Red moved to Adrian, MO in 1967. Red owned an auto parts store and she worked there until they sold it. Red passed away February 2, 1995. Martha worked the volunteer ambulance for over 20 years and still drove the city taxi. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Crescent Hill Chapter 127, Adrian, and held the posts of District Deputy, Worthy Matron, and Grand Matron. She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge 449 and held offices of Noble Grand and District President. Martha belonged to the Solo Club and the Rolling Bobbins. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Adrian and she loved being of service to her community.

She will be missed by all of her family and friends.