Virgie Ann McDowell Dyess

Virgie Ann McDowell Dyess, aged 85, peacefully passed away on July 25, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication. Virgie was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and teacher, known for her gentle spirit and commitment to education. Virgie was preceded in death by her parents, Pennington and Corine Tyler McDowell, and her grandparents, John and Susan McDowell, as well as Greely and Rachael Tyler. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Leslie McDowell, her sister, Marie Davis, her brother-in-law, Jewell Davis, her nephews Glen and Chuck Davis, and her niece Laura McDowell. She is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Fred Dyess. Together, they shared a life full of love and adventure. Virgie is also survived by her sons, Darrell (Marsha) Dyess, James Dyess, and Larry Dyess, who were the pride of her life; her grandchildren, Amy Dyess, Michael Dyess, Brittani Dyess, Olivia Dyess, Jake Dyess, and Claire Dyess, who will cherish her memory and the special moments they shared; and her brother, Carlton (Barbara) McDowell, along with a host of extended family and friends who will remember her warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith. A graduate of Denham Springs High School, Virgie maintained a close bond with her classmates throughout her life. She furthered her education at Louisiana State University and earned a master's degree in religious education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Virgie's deep faith and love for the Lord guided her as she served humbly alongside her husband, Reverend Fred Dyess, at New Prospect Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Krotz Springs, Louisiana, Brookstown Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, First Baptist Church in Houma, Louisiana, and Victory Baptist Church in Walker, Louisiana. Virgie retired from the Jefferson Parish School System after a fulfilling career as a gifted and talented elementary school teacher at Bissonet Elementary School. She also taught in Baton Rouge and Houma, Louisiana, touching the lives of countless students with her passion for learning and leaving a lasting impact on her students and colleagues. Virgie's friendships encompassed all aspects of life, and each was special to her. From phone call chats to joint family outings, class reunions, vacations, and adventures near and far, she cherished her relationships. Virgie was always ready to lend a helping hand, embodying a servant's mentality and a genuine desire to assist those in need, especially in times of sadness. Virgie's life can best be encapsulated by five words: God, Family, Friends, Food, and Service. In her 85 years, she experienced an abundance of each, enriching the lives of those around her with her unwavering love and support. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation and funeral service celebrating the life of Virgie Ann McDowell Dyess at Victory Baptist Church, 31449 N Corbin Rd., Walker, Louisiana, on August 3, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m., Reverend Chad Ward officiating. The service will be immediately followed by a burial procession to Denham Springs Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Victory Baptist Church Walker, Louisiana. The family would like to extend special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice for providing comfort and care during Virgie's final days; and to all those family and friends who supported the family by bringing food, love and comfort.

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Virgie Ann McDowell Dyess

September 21, 1938 - July 25, 2024