Kathryn Dowdell Allen, 90, died peacefully at Cape Cod Hospital on August 31 after a short illness.

Kathy spent 55 wonderful summers on Martha’s Vineyard. She was a devoted and passionate member of the Cottagers and worked diligently as a fundraiser for the various charities supported by the organization. She was also an active member of Lemuel Haynes Congregational Church in Jamaica, N.Y., and the University Women, Key Women of Queens, Women’s Auxiliary of Jamaica Hospital, NAACP, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.

She graduated from Bennett College in Greensborough, N.C., in 1944 with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Kathy began her career in education as a teacher at St. Mary’s School in Queens, N.Y. and also taught and retired from Queens Children’s Hospital, N.Y.

She was predeceased by her parents, Luther and Ozella Dowdell, and is survived by her beloved son, Millard; granddaughter, Alicia Taylor; great-grandchildren, Latrell and Laila Best; sisters, Ruth Scarville Bonaparte and Mildred Henderson; and a host of extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 13, at 6 p.m. at the Lemuel Haynes Congregational Church, 146-09 116th avenue in Jamaica, N.Y. A service on the Vineyard is planned for next spring. Memorial contributions may be given to the Cottagers, Inc. (building fund).