Catherine L. “Cathy” Dowdy, 70, of Franklin passed away on Feb. 13, 2026, at the Pendleton Manor in Franklin.
She was born on Jan. 10, 1956, in Baltimore, Maryland, the daughter of the late Joe Veston and Velma Catherine (Hedrick) Dahmer.
Mrs. Dowdy was a 1974 graduate of Franklin High School and had worked for 27 years at Hanover Shoe Company.
She had attended Franklin United Methodist Church and Friends Run Church of the Brethren. She was the custodian of the Franklin Presbyterian Church for 17 years. She was a past member of the Franklin Rescue Squad and Franklin Ruritan Club.
She had a tremendous love for animals and enjoyed feeding the ducks and watching the deer. Cruising around in the side-by-side was also one of her favorite past times.
On July 22, 1978, she married the love of her life, Earl Lee Dowdy, who survives.
In addition to her husband, she leaves behind to cherish her memory a sister, Patricia “Patty” Simmons (David) of Franklin; a sister-in-law, Margaret Dahmer; two brothers-in-law, Donald Dowdy (Mary), Dale Dowdy (Judy); and several nieces, nephews, and extended family in Virginia.
She was also preceded in death by a brother, Stanley Dahmer.
Funeral services were held Wednesday at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin with Pastor Tony Tiilley officiating. Interment was in Cedar Hill Cemetery at Franklin.
Memorials may be made to Franklin Volunteer Fire Department, and Pendleton County Rescue Squad, PAWS, or charity of the donor’s choice.
Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com.
