Our Walking Horse Industry has lost a great supporter and wonderful ambassador for our beloved breed. JoAnn Dowell passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2020. Through her 91 years, she left quite a legacy. JoAnn was born in Huntington, West Virginia to Asa and Olrena Garland. She attended Randolph Macon Women’s College and The Ohio State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Microbiology. JoAnn and her husband, Glenn Coe Dowell Jr., were residents of Canton, Ohio, where she was actively involved in the community, including serving as the President of the Canton Woman’s Club.

The Dowell Family was very involved in the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry.  She was the proud owner of six World Champions and seven World Grand Champions, which is an incredible achievement. Most recently in 2019, her aged stallion, I’m Mayhem, was crowned the Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion. JoAnn was also honored as The Scoop’s Reader’s Choice Owner of the Year in 2019. JoAnn’s legacy will continue through her many scholarships, including the Randolph College JoAnn Dowell Scholarship Fund, The Walking Horse Trainer’s Association Scholarship, and The Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Scholarship.

Along with her parents, JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband Glenn C Dowell Jr. MD. She is survived by her only daughter, SueAnn Dowell; and grandsons, Tyler Schott (Sarah), and Chandler Schott (Stacie); and great-granddaughter, Sylvie Schott. A private graveside service was held for the family in North Lawn Cemetery, Canton, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in her memory to The Cozy Cat Cottage, 10344 Sawmill Rd., Powell, OH 43065 or Crossroads Methodist Church, 120 Cleveland Ave. SW, Canton, OH 44702.

It was always a great pleasure meeting JoAnn in the winners’ circle and speaking with her on the phone. She was a loyal friend to so many, and will be missed. The Scoop sends our condolences to the Dowell Family.