"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens."                                                                                              Ecclesiastes 3: 1

A Time to Be Born: Rita Clinkscales Dowdell was born in Americus, Georgia on October 23, 1970.  She was the beloved daughter of Louise Clinkscales Miller.

A Time to Learn:  She received her early childhood and secondary education in the Americus City School System.  Realizing the value and importance of education, Rita later earned her GED and numerous certifications—a testament to her determination and commitment to personal growth.  Throughout her life, she possessed a strong sense of resilience and devotion.

A Time to Serve:  Very early in life, Rita accepted Christ as her Savior,  and began her journey of Christian stewardship at Zion Hope Baptist Church in Americus.  Her faith and trust in the Lord, bold strength, and unshakeable spirit made her resilient; thus, enabling her to live a life full of meaning and purpose.

A Time to Love:   Rita was an extremely devoted and caring mother whose love for her children, Cordeiro, Kierrah, and Corneilus was unsurpassed.  Daily, she put her heart, mind, soul, and energy into ensuring that they felt her unending love and devotion.  She was also a doting grandmother to one grandson, Kimari, whose smile always brought her much joy and happiness.

A Time to Embrace:  A very kind, genuine, and gentle-hearted individual, Rita embraced life's experiences with open arms.  She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, openly welcomed everyone into her heart and home, and her engaging personality left in indelible impression on everyone who knew and loved her.

A Time to Rest:  On Saturday, August 24, 2025, Rita transitioned peacefully at the Willson Hospice House, surrounded by family and loved ones.   She was preceded in death by her husband, Antwan Dowdell; her cherished grandmother, Estella Clinkscales; and her stepfather, Joe Miller.

A Time to Cherish:   Her legacy of love and strong family values  will forever be cherished by her mother, Louise Clinkscales Miller; her children, Cordeiro Clinkscales and Kierrah Dowdell of Americus, GA, and Corneilus Clinkscales of Colorado Springs, CO; grandson, Kimari Clinkscales of Americus, GA; two devoted sisters, Debbie Williams and Sekeithia Jackson of Albany, GA; nieces, DeAndrea Glover of Atlanta, Georgia and Shekinah Jackson of Albany, GA; an aunt, Marie (Sylvester) Perkins of Americus, GA; and a host of cousins, extended