Grace McDowell Schwendenmann, 75, of Mill Spring, N.C., passed away Wednesday morning, August 6, 2014 in the Hospice House of the Carolina Foothills in Landrum, S.C.

Born in Polk County, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Ben Perry and Ruby Grace Champion McDowell, and the widow of David Schwendenmann, who died in 2011. Grace retired from S.C. Elastic, and she was an avid gardener. She was a member of Mill Spring First Baptist Church.

Surviving are a brother, Perry McDowell (Rosa Lee) of Mill Spring, N.C.; three step children, David, Debbie, and Pam of Florida. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by two children, Randy Gilbert and Sherry Pace.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 8, 2014, in Mill Spring First Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. David Bame and Dr. Vince Hefner officiating.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, N.C. 28722

At other times, the family will be at the home of Perry McDowell, 164 Stoney Knoll Road, Mill Spring, N.C. 28756

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com