Emily Anne Irby McDowell, 92, of Williamsburg passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026 surrounded by her family. Emily was born on February 18, 1934. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, friend and vibrant member of the community. She will be dearly missed by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Emily was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, John Feland McDowell Sr., her parents, Dr. Henry Claiborne Irby Sr. and Myra Larimore Irby, and her brother Henry Claiborne Irby Jr. Emily’s legacy continues through her three children and six grandchildren: her son, John Feland McDowell Jr., and his wife Ruth; her daughter, Claiborne McDowell White, and her husband Latham; her son, Charles “Charley” Irby McDowell, and his wife Marie and her grandchildren: Charles “Charley” Wilson Monaghan, John “Irby” White, Kellie Petr McDowell, Nash Lapetina McDowell, Archer Wilkins White, and South Lapetina McDowell.

A proud native of Blackstone, Virginia, Emily was a captivating orator and historian, recounting tales of family history that connected generations and preserved cherished memories. She spoke of her family and childhood in Blackstone often and with great fondness. Born during the Great Depression, her kindness, generosity, and gentle character were undoubtedly shaped by the events of the time. Her father, a dentist, and her mother, a history professor, were pillars of the community and instilled strong values in their children.  Emily recounted stories of her father often accepting a chicken or fresh eggs as payment for his services.

Emily attended Mary Washington College and graduated from both Marjorie Webster Junior College and Longwood College and became an English teacher, before marrying John in 1958. The couple and their growing family lived in Staunton, Harrisonburg, Alexandria, Annandale, Charlottesville and Charlotte, NC before settling in Williamsburg, VA in 1978. She was an active member of the community and loved sports, antiquing, cooking fabulous meals, flower arranging and entertaining. She played tennis in her earlier years and, for decades, could always be found in the bleachers of her children and grandchildren’s sporting events. Her oyster stuffing, clam dip, ham biscuits and “gooey green stuff” were legendary!

She was a proud member of the Kingspoint Garden Club, the Kingspoint Woman’s Club and several ladies’ Bridge groups, where she formed lasting friendships and contributed generously to the social fabric of Williamsburg. She frequented many local businesses, and was often spotted at some of her favorite haunts: The Old Chickahominy House, The Coffee House, Carino’s Seafood, New2You and Shorty’s Diner, to name a few.

Her passion for horticulture was evident in the vibrant gardens and flower arrangements she created, skills she often showcased at the annual Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Home Tour, various club events and family gatherings. Her deep appreciation for nature often led her on leisurely drives along the Colonial Parkway or across the Jamestown Ferry, where she found peace and inspiration, as well as materials for her next flower arrangement, of course.

While Emily was a devoted mother, gifted florist, and talented Bridge player, her favorite role was that of grandmother and was lovingly called “Mimi”. She was a constant source of love and support to Charley, Irby, Kellie, Nash, Archer and South, often sharing a meal with them or taking them on her rides along the Parkway, pointing out birds while chatting about current events and the goings on in their lives. Emily embodied the values of family, friendship, and community. She will always be remembered for her excellent fashion sense, elegant rural-Virginia accent, and genuinely kind heart.

Come celebrate her extraordinary life with family and loved ones on Sunday, May 31^st from 2:00-4:00 at Two Rivers Country Club, 1400 Two Rivers Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185.