Ethel Carney Dowe 1933-2026

TALLULAH, La. (VDN) — 

Ethel Carney Dowe, cherished wife of Ralph Dowe, was the source of service, strength, honor, and love to her family, to Tallulah, to the agricultural community of Madison Parish, and to far-flung friends and relatives.

A 1952 graduate of Tallulah High, Ethel secured a position in the United States Department of Agriculture, where she continued until her retirement nearly 40 years later.

In 1956, she married Ralph. The young couple established a home where they launched their future with their children Donna, Lisa, and Ralph.

Family and friends gathered often at their home to enjoy her skills in the kitchen. Many in the community marveled at the beauty and bounty of their yard and garden. She was also greatly admired and respected for her dedication to the life-long care of her daughter Donna.

Ethel was among the first wave of young, career-minded women who entered the workforce after World War II. She successfully navigated work and family without sacrificing quality in either. Her legacy is in the hearts and memories of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, Ralph Dowe; her parents, Howard Carney Sr. and Leila Carney; and her sister, Clara Ervin.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Donna Dowe; Lisa Nesmith and husband, Scott; and Ralph Dowe II and wife, Alison; her grandchildren, Lori Craft and husband, Patrick; Lindsey Cantin and husband, Brandon; Regan Nesmith; Taft Nesmith; Olivia Robledo and husband Tyler ; and Laura Beth Dowe; her great-grandchildren, Courtney, Brooks, Lyla, and Collin; her brother, Howard Carney Jr. and wife, Valerie; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. 

Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church in Tallulah, Louisiana, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, visitation starting at 1 o’clock with the funeral service beginning at 2 o’clock officiated by Brother James Morgan.  Following the service, Mrs. Dowe will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Silver Cross Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Taft Nesmith, Hollis Ervin, Brandon Cantin, Brooks Cantin, Scott Nesmith, and Patrick Craft.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Thomas Neumann who always provided compassionate care and support to Mrs. Dowe.