In memoriam: Michael 'Mike' Lee Dowdy, Division of Facilities

Michael “Mike” Lee Dowdy, retired mason plasterer in the Division of Facilities, passed away May 24. He was 69 years old.

Dowdy was born and raised in Pearisburg to the late Melvin Dowdy and Anna Link Dowdy.

Mike Dowdy carried with him the values of hard work, devotion, and quiet kindness. He was a mason plasterer for the Division of Facilities for 32 years.

He was a talented musician, guitarist, and a member of Half Throttle, the facilities band. He had a gift for bringing warmth and enjoyment to the moments he shared through song and melody, and his music remains a treasured part of his memory. 

Dowdy is survived by his wife, Brenda, a longtime Virginia Tech employee of more than 30 years. He was a devoted husband who found purpose and joy in standing beside her through all seasons of life. Their bond was built on loyalty, companionship, and a lifetime of shared moments that reflected the strength of their commitment to one another.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Anna Link Dowdy, and his in-laws, Homer and Nancy Shaver Barnett. 

Dowdy’s full obituary can be found online.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

• TimelyCare
  
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem at 855-223-9277
  • Aetna at 888-238-6232
  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
  • Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174
• Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
• Housing Services at 540-231-6205
• Residential Well-being at 540-231-1139
• Civil Rights Compliance at  540-231-2010
• CARES Program at 540-231-7806
  
• University Ombuds Office at 540-231-3125
• Graduate Office of the Ombudsperson at 540-231-9573