James John O'Dowd

O'Dowd, James John

80, of Jackson, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday, January 31, 2026.  Jim is survived by his children Tami O'Dowd-Williams (Mike), and John Hampton (Lynn); grandchildren Austin Bovia (Hannah), Caiti Bovia, Lauren Allen (Jake), Melissa Robinson (Tyler), Hunter Hampton, Jake Hampton and five great-grandchildren. Jim is also survived by brother Patrick O'Dowd (Patricia); three sisters Mary Reska (Joe, deceased), Peggy DeLaet, Shelia Oatley (Jim) and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents John and Catherine O'Dowd; six brothers: Jack, William, Michael, Dennis, Edward, and Thomas; and sister, Eileen Holda.  Jim was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 109. He retired from Denso Manufacturing in Battle Creek as Manager of Information Systems.

Over the span of his life, Jim was a son, brother, cousin, uncle, student, soldier, friend, husband, father,  Information Systems Manager, coach, professor, grandpa, Papa, and great-grandpa. An Irishman through and through, Jim was an avid golfer and sports fan, especially football and baseball. He cheered for the Universities of Notre Dame and Michigan, but most importantly, he cheered on his grand-children by attending their many sporting events. His sense of  humor was infectious and brought smiles and laughter to those who knew, and loved him.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.  Memorial services will be held on Monday, February 16 at JaxNaz Church 3905 Clinton Rd. Jackson 49201 at 11:00 a.m.  Pastor Anthony Vick of M.O.R.E. Jesus Family Fellowship of Ypsilanti, Michigan will be officiating.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim's name to the Vietnam Veteran's of America (VVA) local chapter 109 of Jackson, Michigan.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family Owned for 136 Years