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Harold Dow Obituary
Dow died suddenly Saturday morning in New Jersey, network spokeswoman Louise Bashi said. He lived in Upper Saddle River, N.J., but it wasn't immediately clear if he'd been at home.
Dow had been a correspondent for "48 Hours" since 1990. His nearly 40 years with the network also included reporting for "CBS Evening News with Dan Rather" and "CBS News Sunday Morning."
A "48 Hours" report on runaways earned him a George Foster Peabody Award. He also won five Emmys, for work including coverage of the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, and of American troops' movement into Bosnia in 1996.
"Insatiably curious, he was happiest when he was on the road deep into a story," Susan Zirinsky, executive producer of "48 Ho urs Mystery," said in a statement. "It was his humanity, which was felt by everyone he encountered, even in his toughest interviews, that truly defined the greatness of his work. He was the most selfless man I have known."
Dow landed an exclusive interview with kidnapping victim Hearst in December 1976, and he had the first network interview with O.J. Simpson following the 1994 killing of his ex-wife. He barely escaped one of the falling twin towers on Sept. 11, 2001, the network said.
Dow was a contributor to "48 Hours on Crack Street," the 1986 documentary that led to the creation of the weekly "48 Hours." Before that, he had been a co-anchor on "CBS News Nightwatch" and a correspondent and reporter at the CBS News Los Angeles bureau. He started his career with the network as a broadcast associate in 1972.
As a co-anchor and talk-show host for KETV in Omaha, Neb., he was the first African-American television reporter in that city.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their three children.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
708 Entries
Ronald carter
April 3, 2025
We love you Harold Dow. From you friends Ronnie, Jimmy, Terry, Hop Johnson, and Bill Speed. We will always love your friendship.
M Sullivan
February 25, 2025
RIP Harold. A good journalist
Pat Blizzard
January 22, 2025
To Harold Dow´s Family! His memories still remain a Blessing! I still miss seeing him sharing the latest News! I Hope the Dow Family is doing well, with the memories Harold left for all of us!
Donna Pohner
January 13, 2025
I'm watching an episode of 48 hours right now . He was my favorite journalist
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Edward Platt
November 3, 2024
Mr. Dow was my favorite newsman, he always had a way of delivering the news in such a way that he made you think he was in your living room. Very few people have the gift that Harold Dowd had. I miss him still.
Carrol T Blair
October 31, 2024
Harold Dow was an amazing man, and a top of the heap reporter. I loved him on 48 hrs, he cared about everyone he interviewed. May he continue to R.I.P.
Catia Bau
March 23, 2024
May your light shine in a new world
Cynthia and Anthony Alford
March 22, 2024
Cynthia, & Anthony From Las Vegas, Nevada We Have Really Missed Harold Dow On 48 Hours, Condolences To His Wife and Family, Prayers and Blessings To You All ❤
Cynthia Alford
March 22, 2024
Harold Dow Was My Favorite On 48 Hours, My Husband and I Use To Watch Him, & He Had A Very Unique Style ,With A Very Nice Smile, He Seemed Like He Was A Very Pleasant Person, I Really Miss Him, & I Still Watch 48 Hours, & No One Can Compare To Him, & I Too Also Have Asthma, Love ,Prayers & Blessings To His Family.
Verna Morales
August 30, 2023
Just know that Crystal is doing very well !!!!! You knew all the right things to say to her !!!!! You will never be forgotten.Always loved and remembered
Pat Blizzard
June 7, 2023
Today , the memories of Mr. Harold Dow remains strong.
Pat Blizzard
June 6, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Carmen Graham
June 1, 2023
Rest in Peace
Catia
September 21, 2021
Genuine person. Loved how he was so proud of Crystal in court testimony on 'Live to Tell'
Jill James
June 22, 2017
So sorry to hear this sweet man has passed. He had such a beautiful heart and soul. Mr. Dow honestly cared for so many One of my favorite reporters. RIP sweet man. Gone to soon, and loved by so many
Deanna Gaskin
April 2, 2017
You are missed. God bless you and keep you. R.I.P
Barbara Champ
October 2, 2016
I absolutely adored Mr. Dow. I always enjoyed all his very fine work. I like his presence, sense of humor. I am glad that one can continue to see him on 48 Hours. BTW 48 Hours is the best show of its kind on TV.
RIP
E B
September 18, 2016
Rip Harold! Great guy! Super intelligent and very well spoken! Thanks for your time on TV!
mandy c
September 1, 2016
Although it has been years since Mr. Dows passing, I appreciate the fact I can still see him on 48 hours even worth watching the repeat shows. I hope his family and love ones are all doing well.
T Robinson
March 30, 2016
Sorry for your passing, Mr. Dow. May you rest eternally in God`s loving arms!
Michele G
March 25, 2016
I remember watching Mr. Dow on CBS and I still see him in episodes of 48 Hours on ID. He was always a gentleman, always truly interested in what he was doing and with whomever he spoke.
His generosity of spirit, his insatiable curiosity and his sincerity were always present. He is missed as much today as ever before.
My heartfelt condolences to his family and the world at the early and untimely loss of such a fine human being.
Connie Green
March 6, 2016
I just recently watched an old 48 hours segment where he cried. I was so moved, so moved
Connie Green Philadelphia
Charlene Andrews
February 23, 2016
I miss your Greatness on covering Investigative Stories. I still thank God for you and your family. You have and are still missed dearly.
Penny
December 20, 2015
Watching you now on Fox Crime in South Africa. Was totally shocked when reading the subtitles, and the intro was"The Late Harold Dow". Sincere condolences to your family, they were very blessed to have had you in their lives. Rest in peace, as God has taken home a beautiful Angel
Felisia Hutchinson
November 29, 2015
Watching you on 48 hrs right now Mr Dow. You were an awesome reporter who is greatly missed still today. R.I.P.
Denise Young
November 21, 2015
I was watching ànother 48 hours program and admiring the class & charisma that only my favorite Mr Dow has & when the final "caption" referred to his passing, I became sad because I had forgotten that he was gone. I hate it, I hate it but I am so thankful that we as a nation were blessed to have him come into our homes and deliver interviews, reports, and other news as only he could. May God continue to bless & keep his family strong.
Dad's on the far right
Emily Respass
November 21, 2015
Well to be brutally honest I began watching him, for my parents controlled what we watched on TV. Mr.Dow delivered a staple of current events that was authentic! He's
reporting was truly riveting,
personable, and heartfelt.
Historically the world and CBS lost a
flame and it's flicker is diminished,
however Mr. Dow's contribution to
the industry will forever shine bright
so that the path to success for other
is realized attainable. Most of all,
even though he's 11 years older
than me, the spiritual presence is
that of a father, and he favored my
dad. My dad exposed me to
everything good in the world bought
to society by African American
people by African American people.
Thanks for the dedication to truth,
justice, and the freedom to provide
others the platform to greatness. This platform is blood soaked, full
rivers of tears, and struggles
unimaginable. Mr. Dow, your family,
I thank you for making the way a bit
smoother. I'm forever grateful to you
and my Dad. God bless, and long live the memory of Harold Dow.
MARLA Jackson
November 8, 2015
I was watching an episode of 48 hours on ID...and they made a comment about a story being covered by the late Harold Dow...I was thrown aback so I googled his name...I have seen many stories covered by this man...he was/is a great man...very intelligent...he will continue to be missed
Annette Wilson
October 6, 2015
Watching you now on 48 Hours on ID, realizing it's been 5 years since your passing. Rest well Mr Dow, my family loved watching you on television.
Maureen Flaherty
September 24, 2015
Maureen Flaherty. How I wish that I had the honor of knowing this man. Such goodness in one man is rare.
June 25, 2015
Loved his work, he will be missed. Prayers to his family
Carolyn Richard
April 18, 2015
So very sorry for your loss. Watching 48 hours on the ID channel at this very moment. I know he is missed by all. A great news reporter.
Cheryl Fisher
April 12, 2015
Although it's been almost 5 years since your passing - you are still terribly missed. I just got finished watching a follow up to one of your documentaries. I pray for you and your family. God bless .... RIP Hue Dow. You may be gone but never forgotten
Judy Marino
April 12, 2015
You had a heart of gold
Elizabeth davis
April 12, 2015
RIP, OMG I actually did not know Harold was dead until today when I was watching ID channel and there was a tribute to him and I was shock. So sorry to hear.I live watching him on the news.
Quantilery Pullet
January 4, 2015
I am sorry about the death of Mr. Dow,and 48 hours was and still is my favorite show.RIP Mr.Harold Dow
Lola Broussard-Pittman
October 11, 2014
To the Dow Family: So sorry to hear of your loss. I always enjoyed watching Mr. Dow on 48hrs. But my most fond memory is when he used to do the news late or some would say EARLY in the morning. For some insomniacs as myself he was a breath of fresh air. He truly had a flair and a gift for telling the news. May God continue to reign supreme and comfort you.
Gwendolyn Williams
August 25, 2014
I am so proud to see your legacy of work still lives on. I watch 48hrs regularly and it is so refreshing to see that they still run the stories that you captured. Knowing that you're no longer here saddens me but, knowing of the body of work you completed and the awards you received for them gives me a sense of pride and let's me know you can accomplish anything if you put in the time and work. You are still an amazing man to God be all Glory. Much love and respect for you and your family.
June 24, 2014
Golly, sorely missed. Loved his style, voice, brains. God Bless the Dow family.
S.H. J
June 4, 2014
Your work on earth is done and it is your time to rest
Sheldridge Jones
June 4, 2014
You were a dedicated professional and your presence will be missed
jasmine smith
February 22, 2014
I miss u on 48 hours...may u rest in peace Mr.Dow..
Nadia Trinidad
October 29, 2013
I am a better journalist because I've followed his superb storytelling on 48 Hours. Thank you, Mr. Dow. You have touched my life.
dora costello
May 5, 2013
So sorry to hear this news on 48 he's last night God bless his family
Barbara Williams
May 1, 2013
May you rest in peace. He was wonderful and very talented on 48 hrs. He will be so very missed.
cynthia hardaway
March 26, 2013
I was so sad to hear about the sudden death of Harold I really looked forward in watching him. he will truly be miss.a very remarkable man.may he rest in peace
Lisa Swanzy
February 20, 2013
I am watching a "48 Hours" re-run featuring Mr. Dow. I ALWAYS enjoyed his segments as he was thorough but NOT AFRAID to show his humanism. Mr. Dow, in my humble opinion, will ALWAYS BE the consummate journalist along with Walter Cronkite, Huntley and Brinkley, Dan Rather, and ALL the greats. I will sorely miss his stories and his memorable smile! My sympathies to his wife, his children, and his colleagues. Rest in eternal peace, Mr. Dow. I shall always envision you as one of Heaven's Chief Correspondents.
Renita Battle
January 26, 2013
I am watching reruns of 48 Hours on TLC and the episode that just went off is when I just found out Mr. Harold passed away. I loved watching him on 48 Hours because he was such a cool dude :-). My heart is sadden after hearing he passed. My thoughts and prayers goes out to Ms. Kathy and family.
Gayle Kaye
January 13, 2013
What a gifted journalist/investigative reporter. He was an inspiration to all journalists of all ages. He had a certain way about him especially when questioning something he didn't quite believe. Truly remarkable!
K. O'Leary
September 30, 2012
A truly remarkable man. I looked so forward to watching his shows. Though I didn't know him personally, I thought he seemed like one of the nicest people. He had genuine concern and respect for the people he came in contact with. May God Bless Harold and his family always.
Quan Smith- Starks
August 21, 2012
Kathy! Just want u to no my prayers are with you & ur children today. Prayer keeps us strong. God Bless U ALL.
A. Jacqueline Gill
August 18, 2012
Mr. Dow's passing still saddens me. Watched an episode of 48 Hours just yesterday. I pray that God will always comfort and watch over his wife, children and family members. He seemed to love reporting and had a special gift for it. I loved watching him on the show. No other reporter quite like him.
Priscilla Barnes
August 9, 2012
Mr. Dow is an inspiration to black journalists . I am a Broadcast major myself. Mr. Dow crossed racial barriers and was a true warrior . He has opened doors for future journalists! He is truely a legacy who will be missed by all!
Jerald Richardson
July 20, 2012
Absolutely one of the Best!! He is truly missed
Mo Brown
June 27, 2012
I was just watching 48 Hours Mystery. Found out he passed almost two years ago. My condolences to his family. I loved watching him. He was an excellent correspondent. May he RIP....
R. Robinson
June 27, 2012
I was just watching an episode of 48 Hours, when they remembered him at the end of the show. I was so shocked, I couldn't believe it. I really enjoyed him on the show, and his investigative work; and I love the show, watch it almost daily. Condolences to the Dow Family
Cathy Grant
June 10, 2012
He was a great investigative reporter. I really enjoyed watching him on TV
Linda Branson
June 9, 2012
I enjoyed Mr. Dow and his investigative reporting; he will be missed. One of the best of the best.
ANNETTE ROSARIO
May 3, 2012
May God keep you in his everlating arms Harold. I have always watched all your programs and admired your wonderful work.
God decided to take you to be a guardian angel to us all. REST IN EVERLASTING PEACE...GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AS WELL.
LOU O'NEAL
April 25, 2012
MR.HAROLD DOW HE WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH I JUST LOVE TO HEAR YOU TALK ,OH WHAT VOICE ` .PRAYERS FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.AND MR.DOW I WANT YOU TO REST IN PEACE.AND EVERY THING IS GOING TO BE JUST GREAT BECAUSE GOD NEED YOUR VOICE IN HEAVEN,GOD BE WITH YOU FOREVER.
LOUDORA PRICE/O'NEAL
April 25, 2012
MR.HAROLD DOW HE WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH I JUST LOVE TO HEAR YOU TALK ,OH WHAT VOICE ` .PRAYERS FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.AND MR.DOW I WANT YOU TO REST IN PEACE.AND EVERY THING IS GOING TO BE JUST GREAT BECAUSE GOD NEED YOUR VOICE IN HEAVEN,GOD BE WITH YOU FOREVER.
bruce starks
April 11, 2012
What a wonderfull man like a father to me
March 5, 2012
Not only will his voice be missed, his handsum face and wonderful smile as well! My thoughts and prayers goes out to Mr. Dow's family and close friends.
For every thought of him is a heart beat that I'll never stop.
Patricia Branch
Capital Hgts, MD
Hope Branick
March 5, 2012
Mr. Dow will be sadly missed. I have just learned of his death. He was inspiration to me; his work pushed me toward studying Psychology. He really knew how to bring the best from others. HOPE BRANICK IN SAVANNAH GA.
Ramella Love
January 21, 2012
I too just recently learned of Mr. Dow's death while watching 48 Hours. My condolences to his friends and family. While I did not know him personally his reporting on a story was as if he was talking personally to me.
C S
January 20, 2012
Just learned of Mr. Dow's death! So sad...he will be missed. God bless his family!
Sandi Lopez
January 18, 2012
Harold Dow always brought integrity to his work. A comforting presence.
Tammie
January 18, 2012
Just learned of Mr. Dow death on an episode of 48hrs. He will be greatly missed.
Cole Lucas
January 10, 2012
I also was watching one of his broadcast on 48 hrs and learned of his untimely death, I enjoyed watching him and could also see his love for people and love for what he did for a living!! He will truly be missed and prayers to his family!! Cole Lucas (Bedford, TX)
Debbie
January 9, 2012
Oh my god just watching 48 hours mystery and found out Harold dow had suddenly died in august its very shocking and sad! i feel for his family.
iris causey
December 8, 2011
you will be missed. i watched 48 hours. all the time &i still do. u were the best at ur job. i am so sorry mrs. dow & family.
Shawnda Taylor
December 3, 2011
OMG I didn't know that Mr. Dow passed on I am so hurt to know that he won't be joining us anymore on 48 hours anymore god bless to the family:-(
December 3, 2011
Mr. Dow was an outstanding correspondent and even from afar a very likeable person. He was my favorite 48 hrs. reporter. He will be missed.
RLamb
saffie bensouda
November 28, 2011
i was watching 48hrs on thursday night with Mr Dow in it and just have to light a candle for this great guy. he,ll alwaysr be in our hearts...rip
Bridgett Ewings
November 28, 2011
I was shocked to learn of Harolds passing. He was such a fair and wonderful reporter. I am so sad to hear of his passing. I know the passing of a family member doesn't get any easier, but know that we are still enjoying his work even today.
sammee garcon'
November 28, 2011
the world is so much better having to have had mr dow in all of our lives...
Sammee Garcon'
November 28, 2011
The world is so much better having to have had Mr Dow in All of our lived....
Andrea Savrda
November 27, 2011
I too have asthma and was stunned to have learned of Mr. Dow's passing. I've been a fan since the 48 hours on crack street episode in which I was approx 12 years of age. What an incredible job he has done reporting the stories to us, the US audience. Mr. Dow, Mrs. Dow and family, thank you so much for sharing yourself with us all. There will never be anyone like you on CBS, many blessings to you his family as you have the heaviest hearts, may God carry you thru the toughest days of missing him.
October 30, 2011
Mr. Harold Dow was one of the best at his work; reporting worthy news and stories. God Bless his soul and keep his family with love.
Shirley O. Moore
Pat/Ron Blizzard
October 29, 2011
To Harold Dow Family,Just found out today about Harold's passing. I was watching 48 hours and he was acknowledged at the end. Condolences to the family
The Smith Family
October 29, 2011
Just found out. Shocked. Condolences to the family.
Kira
August 26, 2011
I was unaware of the passing of Harold Dow. He was a great reporter/anchor. I send his family my belated condolences.
Debra Palacios
August 21, 2011
I just found out about the passing of Mr. Dow. So sad to see this at the end of a 48 Hour piece. I really liked this reporter, he seemed like a fair and nice person. I always appreciated his interviews. My condolences to his family. He was excellent at what he did. He seemed very real and down to earth. These days we don't have enough good reporters. Too much junk and nonsense out there.
August 21, 2011
Harold Dow was a true professional. I was unaware of his passing and send the family my belated condolences.
Gerald & Rose May
August 20, 2011
My husband and I are in shock, we just watched an episode of 48HRS with Harold, and at the end the show was dedicated to him. We were unaware he had passed away. We enjoyed Harold and his new coverages. Your family has our prayers and deepest sympathy.
Nazarene Mckinney
May 30, 2011
Harold Dow set the standard for compassion, fairness, and accuracy in reporting at 48 Hours. He imparted warmth and kindness to everyone he interviewed. Harold Dow was a Great Man who delivered great human stories with dignity. My condolences to his family, and heartfelt thanks for sharing this rare treasure with the world.
Peter Ward
January 27, 2011
As a 20-something news junkie, I loved CBS News Nightwatch and distinctly remember Harold Dow and Christopher Glenn and other co-anchors. It was a pioneering newscast, and I was sorry when it ended. But whenever I saw Harold Dow on TV in later years, I'd think back to when I stayed up all night to watch a terrific newscast.
Eula Myles
January 11, 2011
Harold Dow defined the consummate journalist.
Cassandra Satterfield
January 5, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
January 5, 2011
January 5, 2011
You touched the lives of many. Your expertise will be missed.
Cassandra Satterfield Washington,DC
Bonnie Egbuo
January 3, 2011
I am late in learning about the death of Harold Dow. I have been a long-time admirer of his work. He made me proud of him so many times covering stories that meant something to the hearts of not only African Americans, but society as a whole. May he rest in peace. Harold, well done.
December 30, 2010
Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Kathy Dow and the Dow children on the death of "our friend" Harold Dow. Though we had never met him in person, we welcomed him into our home and hearts. He will be missed.
Rev. and Mrs.Gregory Robinson (Kent Island, MD)
Henry Manley
December 26, 2010
My wife and I will miss his reporting, humanity, and compassion.
abisola oladapo
October 4, 2010
rest in peace your voice will still be in my mind. thanks for everything
Jackie Lipscomb
September 29, 2010
I am very sad to hear of Harold Dow's passing.... I will miss stories being covered by Mr. Dow on one of my favorite shows, 48hours.... RIP Harold knowing you have touched the lives of so many...
Marty Cannata
September 29, 2010
So sad. My prayers for him and his family. Harold Dow was excellent on 48 Hours. He was the best in his profession. He was always fair and showed compassion to those in need. Godspeed Mr Dow
September 27, 2010
Our deepest sympathies to the family and all those who loved him. He was one of the greatest reporters of our time who's passion and sincerity was very evident. We will miss seeing his reports.
D J Jefferson
September 27, 2010
I was surprised and saddend to hear of the homecoming of Harold Dow. My deepest sympathy to the Dow's family and friends.
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