Charles Wingate Dowden

Charles Wingate Dowden, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away suddenly on February 5, 2026, at the age of 70. While traveling to experience the beauty of New Zealand, he entered into the glory of Heaven instead.

Born on February 19, 1955, in Zwolle, Louisiana, to Wingate and Neva Dowden (Corley), Charles grew up on a small farm in Fort Jesup and graduated from Many High School in 1973. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in accounting from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches in 1978, where he was an active member and president of Kappa Alpha Order, forming lifelong bonds of friendship.

Charles and his wife, Julie, were high school sweethearts and married in 1977. They settled in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where they raised their two sons, Ben and Drew. Charles was a devoted and fun-loving family man who led those he loved with patience and unwavering wisdom.

Professionally, Charles enjoyed a career in finance and banking. True to his nature, he valued relationships above all else, serving his clients with integrity and care and often turning business partnerships into lasting friendships. He retired in June 2025 from Cadence Bank.

For more than forty years, Charles was a faithful member of St. Vincent's Cathedral in Bedford, Texas, where he worshiped and served in countless leadership roles. He loved his church family and was known for his humble, steadfast service and joyful spirit.

As a dedicated Rotarian, Charles served as President of the Rotary Club of Dallas from 2019 to 2020 and was honored as Rotarian of the Year for 2021-2022 and again for 2022-2023. He faithfully exemplified the Rotary motto, "Service Above Self." When called upon to help, his response was always, "I'll take care of it."

An avid outdoorsman, Charles enjoyed hiking, fishing, camping, gardening, and travel. He treasured the quality time spent bonding with his brothers, his son, and his nephews during their annual fishing and camping trips. He also shared a passion for travel with Julie and always looked forward to their next great adventure together.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife of forty-eight years, Julie, and his son Drew, of whom he was immensely proud. He is also survived by his brothers, Keith Dowden (Laura) of Leesville, Louisiana, and Wayde Dowden (Katrina) of Many, Louisiana; his brothers-in-law, Clay Tramel (Karen) of Coppell, Texas, and Andy Tramel (Penny) of Southlake, Texas; many nieces and nephews, as well as a great-niece and great-nephews; and his beloved dog and faithful companion, Toby.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Benjamin Peyton Dowden.

Charles will be remembered for his legacy of love, kindness, and service. His life was a living testament to his faith.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."
— Matthew 25:23

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Charles' life will be held on February 28, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Vincent's Cathedral, 1300 Forest Ridge Drive, Bedford, Texas. Interment will follow at a later date at Fort Jesup Cemetery in Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Charles' memory to the American Heart Association, the Rotary Club of Dallas, or St. Vincent's Cathedral.