Nancy Belle Dowell

Nancy Belle Dowell, age 90, of Indianola, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on March 4, 2026.

Born on February 12, 1936, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Carlton B. and Marydell (Warren) Shaw, Nancy grew up with a deep appreciation for home and rural life that remained with her always. In 1953 she married the love of her life, Gene Edwin Dowell. Together they built a life centered on family and the countryside they both cherished. Gene preceded her in death in 2001. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Richard Daniel Dowell, Gail Robin Dowell, and Daniel Gene Dowell.

Nancy spent more than fifty years at the homeplace she held so dear. She found great joy in caring for animals, especially her horses and dogs, and took pleasure in raising sheep and embracing the rhythms of country living. Above all, she treasured gathering her family at home, where countless memories were created. She also loved music, particularly rock and blues, and often listened to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Clapton. Those who knew her will remember her strong will and the stubborn streak she carried with quiet pride.

She is survived by her children, Gail Dowell and Dan Dowell (Wendy); her grandchildren, Troy, Jesse, Wesley, Carrie, Neil, Crystal, Dustin, and Ashlyn; seventeen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Marilyn Bell; and her daughter-in-law, Diane Dowell. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gene; her son, Richard Daniel Dowell, who passed away on September 12, 2015; and her brother-in-law, Barry Bell. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her love of the land and animals, and the steadfast life she built in the place she called home.