Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Thomas Alexander Dowell, 66, of Lexington, Virginia, passed away Friday December 4, 2020 at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital.

Thomas was a son of Virginia Clark Dowell and the late Stephen Bond Dowell.

Thomas received a commission from the United States Naval Academy in June 1976 and went on to serve 29 years of active duty in the submarine community, retiring honorably with the rank of captain. His service included assignment to four submarines and various command staffs, including the USS John C. Calhoun (SSBN 630), USS Baton Rouge (SSN 689), USS Providence (SSN 719), and command of the fast attack submarine USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705). During his tour as commanding officer USS City of Corpus Christi completed two successful North Atlantic deployments and was awarded the Battle Efficiency "E" and Submarine Tactics "T." His last at sea duty was that of commanding officer of the submarine tender Emory S. Land (AS 39).

Captain Dowell is authorized to wear the Legion of Merit and Meritorious Service Medal (five awards), along with numerous other personal awards.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Barbara J. Dowell; children, Lori A. Dowell, Thomas A. Dowell Jr., Michael J. Dowell and Robert L. Dowell; a granddaughter, Haley Schulte; sister, Jeannie Salas; and brothers, Stephen B. Dowell, Douglas Dowell and Jonathan Dowell.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Myeloma Foundation www.myeloma.org.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.