John "Governor" Wayne Dowling Sr.

John Wayne Dowling Sr. “Governor” of New Lexington passed away peacefully at home after his battle with cancer on Feb 8th, 2019.  He was born on June 18th, 1947 to the late Ralph and Catherine Dowling.  He served in the US Army proudly during both the Korean and Vietnam War.  He drove trucks all around the country.  Governor was a member of the American Legion Post 188 and a member of the New Lex Classic Riders. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Dowling; children, John (Jamie) Dowling, Valerie (Richard) Cline, Stacey (Porter) Cosby, Lisa (Allen) Fox, Katherine Wolf, Sean “Nick” (Esther) Dowling; grandchildren, Amber, Bradley, Abregayle, Bryce, Austin, Adam, Keyla, Kimberley, Mackenzie, Breanna, Sierra, Aaron, Cherodan, William, Brett, Sierra, Anthony, and Kimberley Paulsen; 16 great-grandchildren; siblings,  Joe Dowling and AnnVaun (Bill) Culp all of Wellsville; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Doris, Robert, Ralph, and Michael, and sister, Linda Hawk.

Memorials in the Governor’s name and special thanks can be made to the Perry Co. Cancer Alliance P.O. Box 724
New Lexington, OH 43764 or the FairHoPe Hospice 282 Sells Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130

Caring Cremation™ has taken place through the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.  A celebration of Governor’s life will take place on Feb 23rd. 2019 at 1PM at the New Lex Classic Riders’ Club House, 810 N Main St. New Lexington, OH 43764.  Online condolences can be made at www.funeralhome.com