Rachel Joyce Dowdy Hamlett Obituary
With solemn hearts, we announce the passing of Rachel Joyce Dowdy Hamlett of Forest, Virginia, whose presence will be deeply missed, having departed on December 2, 2025 at the age of 87. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Joseph Preston Dowdy Sr. and Edith Cage Dowdy; her husband Edward Phillip Hamlett Sr. (Eddie); her son-in-law Wayne Smith; and her siblings, Joseph Preston Dowdy Jr., John Lewis Dowdy, Clarence Dowdy, Adele Crews and Frances Gibson.
She is survived by: her children, Donna Smith of Rustburg and Edward Phillip Hamlett Jr. (Martha) of Lynchburg; her grandchildren, Emily Mongold (Kevin), Casey Smith, Chelsea Smith, Noah Hamlett (Abbey) and Christian Hamlett; and her great grandchildren, Charleigh Smith and Knox Yslas.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 6th 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Tharp Funeral Chapel (220 Breezewood Dr, Lynchburg, VA 24502). A funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 7th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the same location.
