Iva Darlene McDowell-Jones – North Belle Vernon

God sent his heavenly angels down to carry the chosen one to her heavenly home. Iva Darlene McDowell-Jones was born on Feb. 5, 1954, originally of Donora, and went home to be with the Lord on Sept. 1, 2023. Known to many as “Sissy,” she enjoyed spending time with her family, her church family and making some of the best food, which she shared with everyone she loved. Sissy was the daughter of the late Aaron K. McDowell and Dolores Lightfoot McDowell. She was a long-term resident of Long Branch, prior to her relocation to North Belle Vernon. Sissy graduated from Ringgold-Donora High School as a member of the marching band and piano/organist of her church. Following graduation, Sissy attended California State College, now PennWest California, to study psychology. Sissy worked as a bus driver for California Head Start and later as an aide for Comfort Keepers. Her most cherished job was being a mother to her three children. Sissy was a member of Mt. Zion AME Church of Brownsville for many years before joining Antioch Baptist Church of Belle Vernon. Sissy was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow W. Jones Jr.; and a brother, Kevin McDowell. She leaves her loving children: a daughter, Erica Jones of Belle Vernon; and two sons, Aaron Jones of Long Branch and Michael Jones of Pittsburgh. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind her brother, Michael McDowell and wife Renee of Donora. Sissy’s love, laughs and tenacity were shared with a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and devoted friends. Sissy was loved and will be sadly missed. Family and friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, at Antioch Baptist Church, 945 Henry St., Belle Vernon. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at Antioch Baptist Church in Belle Vernon. Pastor Jacqueline Butler of Antioch Baptist Church, Belle Vernon, will give the eulogy. Interment will follow in Mon Valley Memorial Park, Donora. Final celebrations are entrusted to MARSHALL MARRA FUNERAL HOME, 216 Chess St., Monongahela, PA 15063, 724-258-6767. Condolences can be made online at marshallmarrafuneralhome.com.