Gerald E. McDowell

 Gerald Edward McDowell, 83, died peacefully at home in Chatham, MA surrounded by family on
May 27, 2025. A funeral mass will be held for him on Thursday, June 5th at 11am at Holy
Redeemer Church.
Mr. McDowell was born in 1942 in Norwich, CT to Anna Kane McDowell of Fall River, MA and
Gerald E. McDowell of Fitchburg, MA. He grew up in Tiverton, RI. He attended Brown University
and the University of Rhode Island graduating with a B.A. in 1964 before receiving a J.D. from
the Law School at the University of Virginia in 1967. While at URI, he met the love of his life,
Regina McHie of Bayside, NY.
Mr. McDowell worked for the U.S. Department of Justice as a federal prosecutor for over 35
years. He served as the Chief of the Organized Crime Strike Forces in Boston and St. Louis,
Chief of the Public Integrity, Fraud, and Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Sections. A
steadfast believer in the principles of American democracy, Mr. McDowell dedicated his life to
public service. He viewed the federal government as a vital instrument for the public good, and
saw the rule of law not merely as a legal concept, but as the foundation of a just and functioning
democratic society.
In retirement, Gerry built a rich community of friends. He served terms as president of the
Newcomers Club, Conch, and the Men’s Club. He was an award winning writer and taught Tai
Chi. Mr. McDowell had a gift for humor, a dry wit, great timing, and a love of storytelling that
made every gathering full of laughter.
Gerry fought Parkinson’s Disease for over 20 years with determination and grace. He did
everything he could to stay strong, active, and engaged in life.
He is survived by his wife, Regina; his children, Nicholas McDowell (Veronica Chico Rickson) of
Redwood City, CA, Meghan McDowell (Robyn Alley) of San Francisco, CA, and Susanna
McDowell of Chatham; his grandchildren, Alexander McDowell, Eli Alley and Simone Alley; his
nieces Maura Miller and Lori Gilmore, and nephew Brian Miller.
Gerald E. McDowell lived a life of principle, purpose, and joy. He believed in justice, served with
honor, always with wit and humor. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to
the American Parkinson Disease Association or the Mass General Neurology Department in his
memory.