James Jerome Dowers

April 29, 1945 - July 3, 2026

James Jerome Dowers of Jericho, VT, beloved husband, step-father, step-grandfather and step-great grandfather went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on July 3, 2026 at the age of 81 after a long illness. He passed at home, surrounded by his family.

"Jim" was born at Barre City Hospital, Barre VT to Dorothy Deyo Dowers and Albert Dowers. He was their only child. Jim graduated from Spaulding High School in Barre and shortly after enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict. Jim spent his tour of duty in the Army Corp of Engineers achieving the rank of Spec 4 and earning the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Overseas Bar, and an Expert Badge with M-16 Rifle. Upon discharge, Jim held a number of jobs but settled on a career with the Dept. of Transportation Motor Vehicles in Montpelier VT where he retired on a disability due to increasing struggles with service-related PTSD. Jim was a strong advocate for recognition of post traumatic stress disorder for Vietnam veterans.

Jim was a patriot who loved his country and honored those who have sacrificed so much to preserve freedom and the rights of the US Constitution. As the manifestations of his PTSD increased, Jim's world became smaller until he was unable to leave his home, but he kept up with current events and could always be counted on for an opinion. Jim loved his family and they and others who knew him often say he was the most generous man they have ever met. He lived a simple life so he could share with others. Jim had a deep love for animals of all kinds but especially dogs and horses. He contributed to many animal organizations and adopted a steady stream of rescue dogs. Jim volunteered for Greyhound Rescue for a number of years, where he met his wife, Patricia.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy Dowers Bullock and Albert Dowers. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Dawe) Dowers, his stepson William Waller of Middlebury, Vt, his stepdaughter Amanda Voyer (Travis) of Jericho Vt, his stepgrandson, Simon Voyer and step granddaughters Annabella and Eloise Voyer, and step great grandson, Elias Lewis-Voyer all of Jericho, Vt.

Military funeral service will be held graveside at Jericho Center Cemetery on July 13th at 11 AM

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church Missions. Calvary Baptist Church Essex Junction, VT 05452.