In memoriam: Genevia Fisher Dowdy, Division of Campus Planning, Infrastructure, and Facilities

Genevia Fisher Dowdy, retired housekeeper in the Division of Campus Planning, Infrastructure, and Facilities, passed away on May 24, 2024. 

Dowdy was born in Montgomery County, Virginia on Dec. 3, 1965, to the late Oren Wayne and Ellen Collins Fisher. She worked at Virginia Tech for over 34 years and was a member of the housekeeping team from Nov. 25, 1998 until she retired on June 1, 2023.  

Dowdy had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. Her contagious smile and laughter would spread quickly throughout the room, touching the lives of everyone she encountered in a positive way. Dowdy was also known for her exceptional work ethic. She was always willing to lend a hand and took pride in her years of service to the university. She would often joke that Virginia Tech was her home away from home, and referred her colleagues as her work family. In addition to being a proud member of her “work family,” Dowdy loved her immediate family and spoke of them often. 

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Frankie D. Dowdy; sons, Dusty Fisher (Brittany), Eric Paul Fisher (Paulina); daughter, Jessica Fisher; adopted son, Bobo; seven grandchildren; one great-grandson; sister, Geraldine Sawyers (Eddie); special sister-in-law, Della King.

Dowdy’s full obituary is available online.

Virginia Tech employees who need assistance or counseling support may contact:

• TimelyCare
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787
• Employee Assistance Program