Caroline Dowell

Caroline Dowell passed away at her home near Manchaca, Texas on April 29, 2019, at the age of 89, surrounded by her beloved beagles. She was the daughter of James P. and Louise Dowell of McKinney, Texas.

Caroline provided significant assistance to many dog organizations, including the National Beagle Club, the San Jacinto Beagle Club, and the Travis County (Texas) Kennel Club. She contributed immeasurable time as well as substantial financial help to purebred dogs and rescue dogs alike. While many knew of Caroline's devotion to things beagle, she was a complex, intelligent lady and proud to be a life-long Democrat. She was a great friend to those fortunate enough to spend time with her.

After graduating from McKinney High School, Caroline attended Stephens College for two years before obtaining her Bachelors' and Masters' Degrees from the University of Texas at Austin. Retired as a testing administrator with the University of Texas, she accumulated the land just south of Austin which became her ranch. There Caroline raised Hereford and cross-bred cattle, created a unique herd of Tennessee Meat goats and Boer hybrids and gave a home to dozens of horses, donkeys and working dogs. Here, she entertained friends, provided fond memories to many exhibitors and spent her life among the beagles she loved so much. Caroline said she was not a breeder, but was a collector. She managed to collect a number of memorable beagles, such as her Peggy Perfect, Sailor Boy and the incomparable Uno. Along the way, she collected hundreds of friends.

As Caroline requested, she is being buried next to her parents in Pecan Grove Memorial Cemetery in McKinney, Texas. She asked that no service be held. Anyone who desires to memorialize her can make a contribution to the American Beagle Relief Network, c/o Jessica Parker, Treasurer, 2117 Charmarie Ct., Marietta, GA 30062. AMBRNet is a 501(c)3 organization; tax ID 46-3481014.