Obituary of Francis Dowd

Frank Dowd of Morris Plains, Manchester and Sparta passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024 after a short illness. Born and raised in Tibohine County Roscommon, Ireland, Frank emigrated to the U.S. in 1953. He is a veteran of the US Army.

Frank was an active member in the GAA playing in Gaelic park and coaching youth Gaelic football at St. Brendan’s in Kearney. He was active member of the Roscommon Society of NY, Giblin Association and The Irish American Association of Northwest Jersey.

He was a member of Local 11 Ironworkers for 30 years and worked for Interstate Iron Works in White House Station, NJ for 25 years. He retired in 1996.

Frank loved a good laugh and enjoyed dancing with his lovely bride Christine of 62 years. He was always willing to lend a hand on any home project for family members and friends. Frank loved to golf, read and spend time with those that he loved.  He truly had the heart of gold.

Frank was predeceased by his son Kevin Dowd, siblings, Peggy Dowd, Madeline Gilligan, Raymond Dowd, Noreen Clarke and Joseph Dowd. Surviving are his devoted spouse, Christine (nee Gilligan), children, Joseph Dowd, Robert Dowd and his Spouse Julia, and Christine Connolly and her spouse, Martin; cherished grandchildren, Brady Raab and her spouse Louis, Katie Dowd, Brenna Dowd, Justin Gould and his spouse Sarah, Max Pron, Christian Connolly, Owen Pron, Daniel Connolly, Lila Dowd, Mia Dowd and Grace Connolly; and his brother Laurence Dowd. 

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 from 5-8pm at Dangler Funeral Home, 600 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. A Mass of Christian Burial for Frank will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Virgil's Church, 250 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. Interment will follow at Sparta Presbyterian Methodist Cemetery, Sparta. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in memory of Frank may be made to: Foundation for Morristown Medical Center (www.F4mmc.org).