Pastor Emeritus
Gilbert McDowell
Rev. Gilbert W. McDowell, pastor emeritus, served Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church for 28 years as pastor. He came to JHBC in 1964 from Pilot Baptist Church, Zebulon, NC. where he served from 1955-1964. From 1964 until 1992 he led the church through two building programs of the present education building and sanctuary. He served on the Ordination Committee of the Sandy Creek Baptist Association and remains active in the church life.
Rev. McDowell graduated from Greenwood High School, Greenwood, South Carolina. Received his Bachelor’s Degree from Furman University, Greenville, SC. and his Batchelor of Divinity Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC.
He and his wife, Nancy Powell McDowell have three sons. Steve and wife, Tanya of Cary, NC. They have two children, Ashley and Zachary. Stan and wife, Karen of Charlotte, NC. They have two sons and a daughter-in-law, Mark and wife, Kate, and Joey. Bert and his wife Mary live in Cumming, GA. and have one daughter, Maggy.
He has many interests that have kept him busy over the years. His love for family, friends, gardening, sports, and reading (especially history) has always been a priority. His love for God’s word and understanding of people endears him to the present day congregation of JHBC. He and Nancy were honored in 2003 when the new fellowship area, McDowell Hall was named for them. He has continually led people to “deeper depths and higher heights” of God’s love.
