Dowdle Funeral Home Obituaries

About Dowdle Funeral Home

Dowdle Funeral Home, located at 154 East Fourth St., Oswego, NY, 13126, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the Oswego area, Dowdle Funeral Home has built a reputation for excellence and dedication to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At Dowdle Funeral Home, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. That's why they are committed to providing personalized and caring service to each family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team at Dowdle Funeral Home is dedicated to ensuring that every detail is taken care of, allowing families to focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of their loved one.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Kathleen M. Wallace - Unknown - April 17, 2022

Departed: 04/17/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Kathleen Mary Wallace, 78, a resident of Oswego passed away on April 17, 2022, at University Hospital in Syracuse. Born in Wausau, Wisconsin on February 18 th, 1944 to the late Gordon and Genevieve (Reynolds) Synnott. She was a graduate of Oswego High School and Hagertown Business College in Maryland. She was employed with Stone & Webster Engineering in Human Resources during the building of the Nuclear Power Plant in Oswego. She was the proud mother of Joseph and Jason Wallace. Loving grandmother to Addison, Madeline, Grayson, Carlena, Beckett and Jason Jr. She was happiest when surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved to travel, shopping, puzzles and vicariously gardening by her neighbors. She was a member of the Knights of Columbus #227, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Granby Seniors and Golden Ages. Surviving to cherish her memory are her son, Jason (Carlena) Wallace of Fabius, her sister, Jaime Hughes of Hurley, N.Y., grandchildren mentioned above and several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Wallace II in 2001 and her son,Joseph Wallace III in 1992. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11:00 from Christ the Good Shepherd Church. Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery. Friends may call at the Dowdle Funeral Home on Friday from 9:30-10:30 am. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to The Wounded Warrier Project; PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org

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Diane L. Spicer - Unknown - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Diane L. Spicer, 72, of Scriba sadly lost her courageous battle with cancer on April 11, 2022.  She will be remembered as a devoted and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, co-worker, and friend. Born in Scriba, NY, to the late Lavere “Coe” and Theodora Enos Upcraft, she resided in Scriba her entire life. Diane was happiest when she was surrounded by her loving family.  Many cherished memories were created during family gatherings large and small.   Diane worked at Paul’s Big M in Oswego, NY, for over 40 years where she held many roles, including customer service and bookkeeping.  She and her husband Charlie spent a great deal of time camping and enjoyed their summer weekends at Brennan Beach for the past 18 years.  Those who knew Diane well understood her lifelong passion for Elvis. One of her greatest pleasures, however, was traveling to Disney World with her family. Diane was also an active member of the Lycoming United Methodist Church where she served as a trustee for many years. She is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Charles E. Spicer.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters Joan Hyde, Gloria Best, and Cathy Stoutenberg.  Diane will forever be missed by her children Brian (Kristin) Simoneau, Barbara (Kyle) LaTray, and Brett Simoneau; her step-children Tammy (Mike) Brooks, Charles (Nicole) Spicer, and Mike (Stephanie) Spicer; her siblings Dean Upcraft, Frances (Jim) Searles, Carl (Jane) Upcraft, and Roxann (Charles) Parkhurst.  Additionally, Diane’s love will forever be remembered by her many grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews, in whose lives she played a special and profound role. Friends may call at the Dowdle Funeral Home154 East Fourth Street, Oswego, NY, 13126 on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 from 4:00 to 7:00

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11 am from the Lycoming United Methodist Church, 174 Miner Road, Oswego, NY, 13126.

Burial will follow at the  North Scriba Cemetery.

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Neil F. Reidy - Unknown - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Oswego)

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Frances M. Hogan - Unknown - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Frances M. Hogan, 77, a resident of Oswego passed away on April 6, 2022, at the Oswego Hospital. Born in Fulton, She was a daughter of the late Frank and Marie (Stauring) Crego and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. She was an LPN and later was a homemaker for many years. She enjoyed crocheting, and knitting, and loved to sew. Surviving are her children, Victoria (Ralph Jr.) Legates of Oswego, William Hogan III of Oswego, Richard (Marion) Hogan of Fulton, two brothers, Frank (Glenda) Crego of Ill., Sam (Tina) Crego of Oswego, one sister, Shirley (Bruce) Turner of Oswego, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, William Hogan Jr. in 2012, a grandson, Mark Kelly Jr., two brothers, Harold Crego, William Crego, four sisters, Constance Smith, Barbara Crego, Corinne Lewis, and Betty Whalen. Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Burial will be in Fairdale Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Bruce N. Strong - Unknown - April 03, 2022

Departed: 04/03/2022 (Oswego)

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Lynn M. Forbes - Unknown - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Lynn M. Forbes, 70, a resident of Scriba passed away on March 28, 2022, at her home. Born in Oswego, She was a daughter of the late Laurence and Agnes (MacDonald) Forbes and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. She was employed with Marine Midland Bank and later with the Oswego County Family Court Lynn loved to read and enjoyed knitting. Surviving are two sisters, Loretta Schafer of Rochester, Ann (James) LeRoy of Scriba, a brother, Laurence Forbes Jr. of Florida, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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William G. Gunther - Unknown - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Oswego)

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Devin M. LaMay - Unknown - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Oswego)

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Iona M. Weaver - Unknown - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Iona M. Weaver died peacefully on March 9, 2022, at the age of 88.  She was born in Erin, New York on March 10, 1933, to Lawrence and Erma (Rosekrans) Leonard.  Surviving are her children, Teddi Vickery (Paul), Judy Ledbetter (Phill), Jim Weaver (Deb), siblings, Joan Bailey and Onalee Hartman.  She was predeceased by her siblings,  Beverly Fridie, Rodney Leonard, and James Leonard.   She spent most of her life in Phoenix, New York with some time in Richmond, Virginia.  There are no funeral services or calling hours.  Donations in Iona's name may be made to St. Luke - John Foster Burden Fund, 299 East River Road, Oswego, NY 13126  Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Gloria J. Talamo - Unknown - February 23, 2022

Departed: 02/23/2022 (Oswego)

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Thomas W. Usherwood - Unknown - February 22, 2022

Departed: 02/22/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Thomas William (Billy) Usherwood, age 78, unexpectedly passed away on February 22, as a result of an apartment fire.  His beloved cat Pyewacket was also lost.

He was born on May 5, 1943, to Louis F. and Anne M. (Brown) Usherwood, Syracuse, NY. Mr. Usherwood attended Valley High School. In 1965 he became an elevator technician, working with Otis, Davis, Schindler/Millar, Midstate, and Dover companies through the International Union of Elevator Constructors. He continued until 2004 when he retired. In 1970 he founded Valley Pizza Villa located in Syracuse and then relocated to Oswego, NY in 1974 to raise his family and open the Pizza Pub located at 141 W. Bridge St., where it continued until 2010 when he retired, after 40 years in business.

As a young man, Billy loved boating, skiing, scuba diving, and playing hockey with the Lauren Kirkby Hockey League in Syracuse. As an adult, he traveled often throughout New York State and especially loved Alexandria Bay. He truly loved his career in elevators and was continuously fascinated with their inner workings. He had a rigid work ethic and held at least two jobs at all times. Billy adored his immediate and extended family and remained as close to them as possible. Billy had a great sense of humor and enjoyed playing small pranks on friends and family members. He took interest in others and enjoyed socializing. Over the years he became an avid fan of country music and spent hours listening to it. But mostly, Billy quietly enjoyed the outdoors and wildlife as he spent hours feeding squirrels and walking with his dog. His last contribution on this earth was to fully care for his partner in life, Linda Bartosek. Linda passed in November of 2018 after her long battle with cancer.

Mr. Usherwood is survived by a daughter, Lisa A. Usherwood Licitra (Carmen) Baldwinsville NY, grandchildren - Matthew and Nathan Licitra of Baldwinsville, step-daughter Jennifer Bartosek Johnson former spouse, Sharon R. Usherwood, Baldwinsville, brother Charles I. Usherwood, Sr., Cicero, and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Usherwood is predeceased by his daughter, Lori L. Usherwood, his partner in life, Linda Bartosek, brother George B. Usherwood, sisters Jane E. (Usherwood) Tanner and Noreen A. (Usherwood) Bishop, and his much-beloved dog, Princess.

Arrangements for Mr. Usherwood have been made by the Dowdle Funeral Home in Oswego, NY.  While there are no calling hours, a celebration of life will be held for both Billy Usherwood as well as Linda Bartosek on May 22nd at Beaver Lake Nature Center. If you'd like information on attending the celebration please email the family at: LLicitra36@gmail.com.

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Charles R. Pfeifer - Unknown - February 20, 2022

Departed: 02/20/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Charles Richard Pfeifer passed away peacefully on February 20, 2022, surrounded by family following a long battle with cancer. Charles was born in Oswego, New York on June 24, 1949, to Joseph C. Pfeifer and Patricia A. Pfeifer(Gramling). He graduated from Oswego High School and went on to serve his country in the Vietnam War as a communications technician where he earned the rank of Sgt. First-Class. After his discharge, Charles lived and worked in Central New York, eventually moving to South Dakota and Colorado before returning to his hometown several years later.

Perhaps best known in and around the community of Oswego as a mail carrier, Charles was blessed with a loving family and a multitude of dedicated life-long friends. An active member of the Hibernians and the Elks club, Charles had a knack for nicknames and was known by many of them himself, including Charlie, Chuck, Uncle Hucky, and most ubiquitously, Knife.

An avid fan of racing, the Giants, the Yankees, and Syracuse University sports, Charles was also known for his deep love of music. It was the camaraderie his passions provided that he cherished most. In private he was a crossword enthusiast, never missing a New York Times Sunday puzzle. Charles is survived by his sisters, Nancy Pfeifer, Carolyn Pfeifer, and Melanie Woods; his nephews, Casey Woods and Ryan Woods, six grand-nieces and grand-nephews, and his numerous dedicated friends.

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Thomas M. Culeton Sr. - Unknown - February 19, 2022

Departed: 02/19/2022 (Oswego)

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James W. Lytle - Unknown - February 07, 2022

Departed: 02/07/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: James W. Lytle, 76, a resident of Oswego passed away on February 7, 2022, at his home with his family by his side. Born in Oswego, he was the son of the late Wilford "Woody" and Clara "Marie" (Utter) Lytle and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. He retired as a police officer from the Oswego City Police Department, worked as a corrections officer at the Oswego County Sheriff's Department, was the head of security at Nine Mile, was employed with Davis Brothers, and later worked at the Port Authority. Mr. Lytle served with National Guard from 1966-1972. He was a member of the NRA and enjoyed woodworking. Surviving are his wife of 43 years, the former, Joy Elaine Stevens, his children, Mark (Kathy Hoey) Lytle, Jason (Wendy Taylor) Gilchrist, Constance (Ray) Smith, Adam (Casie) Lytle, eight grandchildren, Ashlee Thompson, Jonathon Gilchrist, Brittany Mason, Breeanne Smith, Jackson Gilchrist, Collin Lyytle, Hunter Smith, Wyatt Gilchrist, great-grandchildren, Ainsley Rowe and Hudson Thompson Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle.Funeral Home.

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Marion J. Wyman - Unknown - February 03, 2022

Departed: 02/03/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Marion J. Wyman, 87, a resident of Sterling passed away on February 3, 2022, at her home. Born in Oswego, She was a daughter of the late Kenneth Mayer and Ernestine Blunt Crouch and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. She was employed with General Electric in Syracuse for over ten years and later was a custodian at Hammermill and St. Luke Health Services. Marion loved to spend time with her family and enjoyed rockin her rocker. She loved to crochet and enjoyed making ceramics. Surviving are three daughters, Aretha (George) Lagoe of Scriba, Carol (Kenneth) Hall of Sterling, Noreen (Paul Bragg) Wyman of Florida, two sons, Douglas (Casey Fields) Wyman of Florida, Brian (Mary Beth) Wyman of Oswego, a sister, Christine Galin of Rome, eight grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Marvin, children, John and Belinda, two granddaughters, Wendy Pritchard, Alecia Hall, and her sister, Louise Snow. Friends may call at the Dowdle Funeral Home on Saturday, February 12, 2022, from 1:00 -3:00 with a service to follow. Mask will be required to attend the calling hours. Spring burial will be in Peck's Cemetery.

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Veronica A. Baker - Unknown - February 01, 2022

Departed: 02/01/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Veronica A. Baker,86, a  resident of Oswego passed away on February 1, 2022. Born in Oswego, She was a daughter of the late Bliss and Doris (Perau) Turner and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. She was a former telephone switchboard operator and later retired from Oswego City School District as a teacher's aid.  Survived by her sons, Kevin Baker, and Tom Baker, two brothers John, and Bruce Turner, three sisters Raejean Barnes, Ann Pritchard, and Evelyn Hogan.  She was predeceased by her husband Thomas Baker in 1999. Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Jean A. Babcock - Unknown - January 30, 2022

Departed: 01/30/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Jean A. Babcock, 90, a resident of Oswego passed away on January 30, 2022, at the Seneca Hill Manor. Born in Oswego, She was a daughter of the late Harry and Grace (LaClair) Lass and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. She retired from the Food Services at Riley Elementary School. For many years you could find Jean along with her husband Hank, brother-in-law Jack and sister, Eileen Saddington in their "spot" at the Oswego Farmer's Market. Jean will be remembered for all the care she gave to her siblings, husband, and daughter during their time of need, and for many a delicious meal, you would find at her table. She always enjoyed the time spent with her children and especially her grandchildren. Surviving are her three sons, Timothy Babcock of Scriba, David Babcock of Old Forge, Gary (Chris) Babcock of Oswego, seven grandchildren, Michael, Nina, Carly, Elizabeth, Jill, Molly & Kerry, ten great-grandchildren, Robbie, Thomas, Owen, Jeanine, Juston, Lilli, Liam, Addison, Nikolai and Parker, nieces and nephews She was predeceased by her husband, Henry O. Babcock, daughter, Jeanine Babcock, two sisters, Betty Dietz, Eileen Saddington, two brothers, Harold and Charles Lass. Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Bernard B. Blake Sr. - Unknown - January 23, 2022

Departed: 01/23/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Bernard  B. Blake Sr., 95, a resident of Oswego passed away on January 23 at the Onondaga Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in Minoa.

Born in Fulton, he was the son of the late Harold and Frances (Connor) Blake and had attended Fulton schools.

He was a finished carpenter who was employed with Dilts for many years.

Mr. Blake was a veteran of the United States Navy and served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.

Surviving are his wife of 35 years, the former Irene Greene, his children,  Bernice Blake of Fulton, Bernard Blake Jr. of Fulton, Paul Blake of Rochester, Timmy Blake of Fulton, Barbara Pauline of Fulton, two stepsons, Richard (Cheryl Ross) Sheridan of Fulton, Allen (Joyce) Sheridan of Oswego, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family.

There are no calling hours.

Arrangements are in care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Anne H. Martin - Unknown - January 21, 2022

Departed: 01/21/2022 (Oswego)

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Lorraine R. Pagano - Unknown - January 14, 2022

Departed: 01/14/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Lorraine R. Pagano (Raine), 80, a resident of Liverpool, peacefully passed away on January 14, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She was surrounded by her loving family to be reunited with her beloved Joe.

Born in Oswego, she was the daughter of the late John and June (Hewitt) Jessmore and was a graduate of the Oswego High School. Lorraine was employed with General Electric in Syracuse for over thirty years. Raine loved a well-manicured lawn and enjoyed working in her many flower gardens. She also liked entertaining at her cottage in Pillar Point. In her later years, she loved going to Friday luncheons with her friends known as “The Fab Five”. Over the years Raine was blessed with scottie companions and most recently rescued her precious Fiona. She was an avid churchgoer and constantly prayed to Padre Pio.

She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Pagano, two sisters; Eileen Hannon and Helen Bracy, an infant brother, Richard Jessmore , sister-in-law Giovanna Brancato and her niece Karen Hannon.

Surviving are her sister Evelyn Knoop of Oswego, her brother-in-law, Santo (Terry) Pagano of Oswego, and brother-in-law Santo Brancato of Liverpool.

She is survived by nieces and nephews: Patricia Hannon, Thomas(Patti) Hannon, Maureen Hannon, Kevin(Regina) Hannon, Michele(Brad) Knoop-Kocher, Charles (Brenda) Bracy, Theresa (Bill) Somers, Dan Bracy, MaryJane(Tim) Collins, Joan (Tim) Lawton, Domenick Brancato, Carmela (Anthony) Maggi, Maria (Mark) Reiter.

Many great and great-great nieces and nephews whom she loved and adored.

Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family.

There are no calling hours.

Arrangements are in care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Michelle A. Hoyt- Watkins - Unknown - January 12, 2022

Departed: 01/12/2022 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: Michelle A. Hoyt-Watkins, 55, a resident of Oswego passed away on January 12, 2022 at her home. Born in Utica, N.Y., She was the daughter of Carole Pryor of Scriba and Ronald O. Pryor. She was a graduate of Oswego High School and received degrees in Business and Accounting from Bryant and Stratton. She was employed with the Elk's #271 for many years. Michelle enjoyed arts and crafts and spending time with her pet rats. Surviving besides her mother are her children, Desire Watkins of Fulton, Mylek Hoyt of Oswego, a brother, Michael Hoyt of Granby, a sister, Mandy Hoyt of Florida and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Daniel R. Brett - Unknown - January 09, 2022

Departed: 01/09/2022 (Oswego)

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Donald E. Townsend - Unknown - January 02, 2022

Departed: 01/02/2022 (Oswego)

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Billie Johnson - Unknown - December 21, 2021

Departed: 12/21/2021 (Oswego)

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David P. Spaulding - Unknown - December 01, 2021

Departed: 12/01/2021 (Oswego)

Obituary Preview: David P. Spaulding, 57, a resident of Volney passed away on December 1, 2021, at his home. David was an avid outdoorsman. Surviving are his mother, Susan Pilon of Oswego, stepfather, Stephen Heimovitz of Oswego, three children, Jami Spaulding of Volney, Jordan Spaulding of Volney, Jeremy Spaulding of Volney, two grandchildren, Jaren Fellows, and Cole Spaulding, two sisters, Tina Spaulding of Tennessee, Debbie (Mark) Gentile of Tennessee, his soul mate, Lorraine Fellows, and several nephews, aunts and uncles. His father, Rickey Spaulding, paternal grandparents, Arling and Beatrice Spaulding, and maternal grandparents, Frederick and Helen Pilon predeceased him. Funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the Dowdle Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services Offered

Dowdle Funeral Home offers a range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funerals and cremations to memorial services and celebrations of life, the funeral home provides a variety of options to suit different preferences and cultural traditions. Their experienced staff will work closely with families to create a personalized service that honors their loved one's memory and provides comfort during a difficult time.

Pre-Planning Options

Many people find that pre-planning their funeral arrangements can bring peace of mind and alleviate some of the burden on their loved ones. At Dowdle Funeral Home, families can take advantage of pre-planning options that allow them to make informed decisions about their funeral arrangements in advance. This includes selecting the type of service, choosing a casket or urn, and even making financial arrangements. By pre-planning, families can ensure that their wishes are respected and that their loved ones are spared from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Cremation Services

Dowdle Funeral Home also offers cremation services for those who prefer this option. Their experienced staff will guide families through the cremation process, explaining all the options available and ensuring that every detail is taken care of. Whether families choose a traditional cremation service or a more contemporary celebration of life, Dowdle Funeral Home is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional care.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while smaller rooms are available for more intimate services. Additionally, Dowdle Funeral Home offers amenities such as audio-visual equipment, catering services, and ample parking to ensure that every aspect of the service is taken care of.

Community Involvement

Dowdle Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the community they serve. Through various outreach programs and charitable initiatives, the funeral home demonstrates its dedication to supporting local organizations and individuals in need. By partnering with local businesses and community groups, Dowdle Funeral Home helps to foster a sense of connection and support among residents of Oswego and surrounding areas.

Contact Information

If you're in need of funeral services or would like to learn more about Dowdle Funeral Home, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. The funeral home is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours available by appointment. Located at 154 East Fourth St., Oswego, NY, 13126, Dowdle Funeral Home is easily accessible from major highways and public transportation routes.

A Message from Dowdle Funeral Home

"At Dowdle Funeral Home, we understand that every life is precious and deserves to be celebrated with dignity and respect. Our commitment is to provide compassionate and professional service to every family we serve, helping them navigate the difficult process of saying goodbye to their loved one. We believe that every funeral should be a reflection of the person who has passed, and we strive to create meaningful tributes that honor their memory." – [Insert Name], Funeral Director

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who knew them. They help to notify others of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and offer a sense of closure.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with the writing process.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial service.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the obituary and celebrate their life.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as their name, age, and date of death. An obituary, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and guidelines. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It's published on a website or social media platform, allowing friends and family to share condolences, memories, and tributes.

Are online obituaries free?

Some online obituary platforms offer free listings, while others may charge a fee for publication. Be sure to check the pricing and features before submitting your obituary.

How long do online obituaries stay online?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform. Some websites may keep them archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I edit an online obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, yes. Online obituary platforms usually allow you to make corrections or updates to the original listing. Contact their customer support team for assistance.

What is a guest book or condolence message?

A guest book or condolence message is a digital space where friends and family can leave messages of sympathy, share memories, and express their condolences.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or obituary websites. Many libraries also maintain microfilm copies of historical newspapers that can be searched in person.

Can I reprint an old obituary?

If you're looking to reprint an old obituary for genealogical research or personal reasons, contact the original publication or copyright holder for permission. Be prepared to provide proof of your relationship to the deceased.

What is a living tribute or memorial fund?

A living tribute or memorial fund is a way to honor the deceased by making donations in their name to a charity or cause they supported during their lifetime.

How do I announce an upcoming funeral or memorial service?

In addition to publishing an obituary, you can also use social media, email invitations, or create a Facebook event to notify friends and family about the upcoming service.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Including meaningful quotes, lyrics, or poems can add a personal touch to the obituary and reflect the personality or interests of the deceased.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider reaching out to a professional writer or asking a friend or family member for assistance. You can also find templates and examples online to guide you through the process.

Can I publish an anonymous obituary?

In general, no. Obituaries typically require verification of identity and relationship to ensure accuracy and respect for the deceased. Anonymous publications may not be accepted by most newspapers or online platforms.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform immediately to report any errors. They will work with you to correct the mistake and republish the revised version.

Can I include humor or lighthearted anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous stories or quirks can help celebrate their life and bring comfort to those who are grieving.

What is the purpose of an obituary beyond announcing a death?

Beyond announcing a passing, an obituary serves as a way to honor and remember the deceased, provide closure for loved ones, and offer guidance on how to pay respects or make donations in their memory.

Can I create a video tribute or slideshow for an online obituary?

Yes! Many online platforms allow you to upload multimedia content such as videos or photo slideshows to enhance the tribute and celebrate the life of your loved one.