Rev. Franklin Lilbert McDowell, Bowling Green, Ky., was born November 6, 1887; died April 19, 1940; age 52 years, 5 months, and 13 days.

He married Vianna Brantley, February 21, 1909, with whom he lived in peace and happiness until his death. To this union were born two sons and two daughters--Cecil and Dorothy of Bowling Green, Ky., Glenwood of Louisville, Ky., and Mrs. Alta Williams of Henderson, Ky. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. L. D. McDowell; three brothers, Ewin, Ray, and Elza McDowell, all of Repton, Ky.; and two sisters, Mrs. Velda Stevens, Evansville, Ind., and Mrs. Delphie Williams, Repton, Ky.

Brother McDowell joined Princeton Presbytery at Piney Fork, October 5, 1909, was licensed at Madisonville, Ky., October 5, 1910, and was ordained at Nebo, Ky., April 6, 1911. At his death he was pastor of the Antioch, Auburn, Flat Rock and Flat Lick churches, having been pastor of Flat Lick Church in Trigg County for the past 25 consecutive years. He was stated clerk and treasurer of Princeton Presbytery for the past 20 years, having attended 61 presbyteries without missing a roll call.

He leaves behind many friends and loved ones who were remembered in his parting prayer shortly before his death.

During his ministry Brother McDowell has filled an unusual place in the Church as pastor and evangelist, holding revivals throughout Kentucky and also in several other states. Many hundreds of people have been led into the Christian life through his ministry. He held many places of honor and responsibility in his denomination. He represented his presbytery several times as commissioner to the General Assembly; served as moderator of Kentucky Synod; and for several years was synodic superintendent of Kentucky. At the time of his death he was a member of the General Assembly's Board of Tithing and Budget.

In his passing, the Church has lost a faithful minister, a wise counselor, and a friendly pastor; the family a devoted father and companion; and the state and community of worthy citizen.

His funeral was conducted at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Marion, Ky., Sunday, April 21, in the presence of hundreds of his friends and relatives by the Rev. J. R. King, assisted by Rev. J. Miller Cook and Rev. G. F. Phelps.
[Source: The Cumberland Presbyterian, May 9, 1940

Mrs. F. L. McDowell of Bowling Green, Ky., announces the engagement of her daughter, Dorothy, to Lebern Clark, also of Bowling Green. The wedding will be June 10 at the Bowling Green church. Miss McDowell's father was the late Rev. F. L. McDowell.
[Source: The Cumberland Presbyterian, June 5, 1951, page 4]