Gen. Wayne's Diamond Is Now 'Jack McDowell Field'

Nearly 100 friends, family, neighbors and fellow teachers turned out Thursday as the baseball diamond at officially became .

The new name honors the legacy of McDowell, who taught social studies in Great Valley School District for 37 years. Those who attended the ceremony described McDowell as selfless, always making time for students. He made sure the school and athletic field was well maintained. When a house right next to the school went up for sale, McDowell purchased it right away. Faculty members remembered seeing him out on the fields—just walking around making sure all was in order.

“[He would] walk the fields and buildings to check for vandalism,” said teacher Ron Steckel. “And if he found any, he would report it, deal with it or fix it.”

McDowell also served as soccer coach and athletic director in the district. After retiring in 2005, he took a seat on the school board in 2007. His failing health forced him to step down from the board prematurely. He passed away in June 2009.

At the ceremony, his wife, Jane, read from some of the hundreds of cards that she received after his death.

"We were so pleased that our daughter had such a wonderful teacher who shared her love of history," she read. "He did more than teaching, he inspired; His caring and belief in each of his students made such a great impact on us all.”

“Thank you to everyone who made this dedication ceremony possible,” Jane said. “Thank you to all who came to share in this celebration. The McDowell family is honored by your presence, and humbled by your tribute.”

McDowell's daughter, Julie Kingery, took the opportunity to announce another tribute to her father's legacy.

“Jeremy and I grew up with parents who made sure that we knew the value of education,” she said. “We’d like to announce that we are starting a scholarship fund in memory of our dad.”

They expect to award the first scholarship in the spring of 2012.