Gilbert O. Dowden was born in Leesville on December 9, 1924, the son of Isadore and Nancy Legg Dowden.
He went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 23, 2010, in his home with his family at his side at the age of 85.
After graduating from Leesville High School in 1942 and at the age of 18, Gilbert enlisted with the United States
Marine Corps. He was a member of the Fifth Infantry Division and fought bravely in the battle of Iwo Jima. When he returned home, Gilbert married Doris Lewis on June 18, 1943. With 37 years service, he retired from the U.S. Postal Service in
1981.
Gilbert is highly revered by his family and friends as one of the most Christ-like men they have ever known–humble, compassionate and kind. A dear son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend, he especially valued
spending time with those closest to him. Gilbert adored his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “D-Daddy,” and he treasured their time together. For most of his life, Gil was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. After
retirement, he began woodworking and spent many hours creating for his cherished family and friends.
He was a selfless servant of the Lord and faithful member of East Leesville Baptist Church since 1946. Over the years, Gilbert served
as church clerk, treasurer, trustee, chairman of the building committee, and he was the Sunday school secretary for over 30 years.
Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, Isadore and Nancy Legg Dowden; brothers, J.B. Dowden,
Glen Dowden and Ray Dowden; and one sister, Elouise Dowden, all of Leesville.
After 61 years of marriage, Gilbert leaves behind his wife and soul mate Doris Lewis Dowden. He also leaves his beloved son, Stephen C. Dowden and wife
Cindy Moss Dowden; two grandchildren, Stephanie Dowden Moon and her husband Justin T. Moon and Douglas Lewis Dowden; and one precious great-grandson, Silas Caleb Moon, six months. Other immediate survivors include his brother Huey Dowden and wife
Joyce; his sister Helen Dowden Blair; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 5 until 9 p.m. on Monday, January 25, 2010, at East Leesville Baptist Church, 266 Alexandria
Highway, Leesville. A memorial service will be conducted at the church on Tuesday, January 25, 2010, at 2 p.m. officiated by Reverend Carl Burris and Reverend Gil Arthur. Arrangements are under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home, 601 South
Fourth Street, Leesville, La. 71446, (337) 238-1358.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gilbert’s memory to Compassion in Action Ministry at East Leesville Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1511, Leesville, La. 71446.
“Be strong and courageous. Be not afraid; neither be thou dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Joshua 1:9
Words of comfort may be expressed to the James family at www.labbymemorial.com.