Jacqueline Sue Dowd's Obituary
Jacqueline Sue Dowd, 83, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026. She was born on April 3, 1943. Jacqueline was a strong, fiercely independent woman whose love, determination, and spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched. For nearly 30 years, Jacqueline worked in the Sporting Goods Department at Walmart, where she formed many lasting friendships, especially with her dear friend Betty. She took pride in her work and enjoyed the relationships she built throughout her career.
She is survived by her children: Jeri and Robert Hill of Oakford, Illinois; Jeni and Terry Patterson Sr. of Surfside Beach, South Carolina; Joni and Steve Dingman of Decatur, Illinois; and Robert and Tanya Minner Jr. of Oreana, Illinois. She is also survived by her nephew, whom she loved as a son, Randy and Toni Dowd of Arthur, Illinois. Jacqueline leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride. She is also survived by her siblings: Theresa and Don Hayden of Decatur, Illinois; Sheila and Richard Carins of Decatur, Illinois; and Larry and Phyllis Atwood of Bethany, Illinois.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Frances Dowd; her brother, Jerry and Mary Dowd; her sisters, Colleen and Gary Reinhardt, Donna and Larry Meredith, and Angela Karl. Jacqueline's strength, resilience, and unwavering love for her family will remain an inspiration to all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. "Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day." Forever loved, forever remembered.
A private gathering will be held at a later date.
Moran & Goebel Funeral Home is providing cremation services.
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