The Ozark (AL) Tribune, Tuesday, May 29, 1906

EDWARD DOWLING DEAD

Edward Dowling, the deceased subject of this sketch, was born in Darlington county, S. C. October 1820. His father removing to Georgia and remaining there a short while, then moved to Alabama, when quite a boy, reaching here on the 10th of March, 1826, near to where the Zoar church then was, or the Sylvan Grove church now is. His father living there about two years, removing to near Ozark and settling the place now known as the Ketchem place. He joined the M. E. Church, South, when quite a young man, and has lived up to his obligations as best he could for more than half a century. He was a great believer of camp meetings, so acted and wrought as opportunity offered. He helped to build Claybank church with his father, brothers and others, over fifty years ago. Many times he has been happy in this old log church, leading in prayer, and song as well.

Some of his favorite songs were: Children of the Heavenly King, Christian's Home in Glory, When I Hear The Trumpet Sound in that Morning. He was a great supporter of the church in many ways. Thus he has lived and died, beinga member of the M.E. Church South over 60 years, He said a few days ago that he was ready, and and died a triumphant death.

He was married to Miss Annie Oats, of Henry county, in the fall of 1841, settling where he died in 1842, raising his family there. At that time the country was frontier and but little advantages as compared to now. But his land was very fertile and he prospered. His precious wife died in the fall of 1874, leaving him alone, heart-broken and desolate. In later years, seeing the need of a companion, was married the second time to Miss Maggie Barnes, of Campbelton, Fla., she dying a few years after their marriage, thus for the second time being left alone, in which state he has lived, until death swept him away on Monday, May 21st, at 2:30 o'clock p. m. 1906.

He was faithfully cared for in the latter part of his life, by his daughter and son-in-law, W. A. Byrd, whose care for him has been all that could be bestowed. In his last hours he was surrounded by his loving daughters except Mrs. Hughes, of Texas, and by his grand children and obliging neighbors, all of whom were so kind to him.

He was near 86 years of age. The deceased has been a true and noble citizen. Always standing for the right, morally and politically. Was in the Confederate war a short while before the war ended. We lay him to rest to-day with tender and loving hands, to await the eternal trump of God when time shall be no more. We expect to see him again. Peace to his last resting place.