Obituary of Bridie Dowd

Chris Dowd of Morris Plains, Manchester and Sparta passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024 after a short illness. Born and raised in Kilkerrin County Galway Ireland, Chris emigrated to the U.S. in 1957.

She was a lifelong supporter of the GAA and an active member of the Women of Irish Heritage, Giblin Association and The Irish American Association of Northwest Jersey where she was president for many years. Chris and her late husband Frank started the Pope John Annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner dance in Sparta and chaired it for many years.

She enjoyed reading, playing Mahjong, Bocce ball, water aerobics during her time living in the Renaissance Community in Manchester and enjoyed spending time with those that she loved the most, especially all of her grandchildren.

Chris loved dancing with Frank, her beloved husband of 62 years. She enjoyed cooking and hosted many holidays and BBQs while they lived in Sparta. No gathering was ever too big. 

Predeceased by her son Kevin Dowd, husband Frank Dowd, siblings, Kathleen Gilligan, Pack Gilligan, John Gilligan, Mary Laffey and Thomas Gilligan.

Surviving are her children, Joseph Dowd, Robert Dowd and his Spouse Julia, 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 her brother Martin Gilligan and his spouse Betty and sister Margaret Hellyar.

Family and freinds are welcome to gather on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 from 5-8pm at Dangler Funeral Home, 600 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. A Mass of Christian Burial for Chris will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Virgil's Church, 250 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains. Chris will be laid to rest with her husband Frank and her son Kevin at the Sparta Presbyterian Methodist Cemetery, Sparta. 

In lieu of flowers – Foundation for Morristown Medical Center (www.F4mmc.org).