Douglas Eugene Sowell

Douglas Eugene Sowell, 89, passed away in Waco on December 21, 2021. Mr. Sowell died from Acute Myeloid Leukemia after a short illness.

Mr. Sowell was born on March 27, 1932, in Cranfills Gap to William L. Sowell and Lula A. McCormick Sowell. He was a graduate of Iredell High School. After two years at Tarleton State University and one year at Texas A&M University, Mr. Sowell became a U.S. Navy Pilot. He was among some of the first Marine helicopter pilots. Upon returning to civilian life, he graduated from the University of North Texas in Denton with a teaching degree. He then trained helicopter pilots who would fight in Vietnam at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells. Douglas later became a test pilot for Bell Helicopter in Hurst. Mr. Sowell then became a pilot for American Airlines, retiring as a Captain in 1992. 

In 1953 Mr. Sowell married Eloise Jenkins. They had two children, Karen Sowell Dickson, who preceded Mr. Sowell in death, and Charles Sowell. In 1976, Mr. Sowell married Patricia Steude and was married to her until his passing.

Mr. Sowell is survived by his wife, Patricia; his son, Charles; daughter-in-law, Celinda and their daughter, Faith; also survived by Karen's daughter, Heather Dickson and her two sons, Christian and Kyler.

A celebration of Mr. Sowell's life will be held at a later date. 

Contributions in memory of Mr. Sowell may be made to the West Shore Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.