Marilyn Dowell Burel

Marilyn Dowell Burel, 80, of West Monroe, LA peacefully passed from her earthly life on March 18, 2023, after a brief illness.

Marilyn was born on December 14, 1942, in Monroe, LA, to James Willard Dowell, Sr. and Fredna Hamilton Dowell. Marilyn was raised in Baton Rouge where she graduated from Baton Rouge High School and Louisiana State University with a double major in English and Music.

Her greatest talent proved her devotion as a mother and grandmother. She was a connoisseur of all things sweet and always saved room for dessert. Her avid love of the outdoors and nature provided her with ample material for her prolific poetry writing. She loved her dogs dearly, but most importantly, she passionately loved God and was truly a beloved friend to all she met.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her husband, Louis Frank Burel, Jr, and her parents.

She is survived by daughter, Cassie (Matthew) Kemmerer, son, Todd (Becky) Sherwin, grandchildren, Karissa and Duston Sherwin; brother, Jimmy Dowell; sister, Ann Dowell, and many Hamilton relatives.

A Celebration of Marilyn’s life will be on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 2:00 PM in the Feazel Chapel of First Baptist Church, West Monroe. Visitation will occur at 1:00 PM until the ceremony.

To remember her favorite color and honor that she is now robed in the royal blue of the heavenly skies, if possible, please wear blue to remember our beloved mom, Nana, and poet, Marilyn Burel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Compassion International at www.compassion.com