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Mary Yolanda Dowling
Mary Yolanda Dowling
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Mary Dowling Obituary
Give Mary Yolanda Dowling an instrument — an accordion, a piano or a set of bagpipes — and she is likely to produce a foot-stomping tune. She may have spent her days as an administrator for Aon Corporation, on the 92nd floor of 2 World Trade Center, but Ms. Dowling's mind was often on her music.
The oldest of four children and deeply immersed in the Celtic culture she inherited from her father, Ms. Dowling, 46, spent much of her free time singing with a choir near her home in Floral Park, N.Y. Rosaleen Shea, her sister, said she received a standing ovation several years ago after singing the national anthem at a Mets game. "She had a voice like an angel and she shared it with everyone, in good times or bad," Ms. Shea said. "Our entire family is immersed in music, but Yolanda is the most gifted."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Michael ( Mikey Joe ) Dowling
September 11, 2024
Howdy Heavenly Cousin. Queen of the Singing Angels.
Marty
September 12, 2021
Dear Dowling Family,
I met Yoyo (as we affectionately called her) in Rosedale, NY, while in high school. A group of us would gather near St. Clare´s to "hang out." She was the sweetest person ever. I remember her telling me her father played the bagpipes; I was in awe. Bagpipes are part of my heritage. Many years later at a party someone said - did you know that Yoyo sang the anthem at Shea? Everyone said if we had known we would have organized a cheering section for her. Yoyo, you are loved by all who knew you. Bless you and your family, Marty Masterson
A Neighbor
September 12, 2021
Yolanda,
Remembering you on the 20th anniversary of 9-11 .
You will never be forgotten.
God has a beautiful voice for his chorus of angels, and your beloved Father and Mother to accompany you.
Rest in heavenly peace .
Blessings to the family. You remain in my prayers , always.
~ Godspeed
Gregory Harris
September 11, 2021
Yolanda, you are remembered every day! You drove me to the New Year’s Eve party 1980 where I met Maura, the love of my life. Six kids snd seven (and counting) grandkids later, we all miss you and pray for your grieving friends and family. Thanks for singing so beautifully at our wedding, as well.
Greg and Maura Harris
Winchester, VA
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Cindy Roe
September 8, 2021
Remembering Mary on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Constance Watz
May 6, 2020
When I was still in high school with Mary Yolanda, I told her that she was very special, and that one day she will do something great. She always had a kind word for others, a beautiful personality, and a voice of an angel. I was in the orchestra while she was in the choral group and often would be asked to sing a solo, especially at our "Spring Concert". Over the years we went our separate ways and lost touch. I worked downtown NY on 9/11 only a couple blocks from the Trade Towers, not knowing Mary Yolanda was down there too. When I happened I was at Our Lady of Victory Church at Mass and the rosary before work, thinking to myself, that day we will need that prayer. Now Mary Yolanda sings from heaven... She will always be a role model to look up to for her goodness as well as her other abilities... and I ask that she pray for me, as I do for the family. Until we meet again...
The Kindred Family
November 8, 2018
We send our sincere condolences to your family for your loss. With each day may God continue to give the needed strength to cope with this sadness. In many ways Yolanda touched the lives of others and will be missed.
James Dowling
September 11, 2018
Even as a stranger who never knew her, even from so far distant place and long-passed years...I feel blessed to have found her, to feel inspired from her, and ache for losing her beauties and talents from this world. For sure, our next awaiting life is even more rich and beautiful now...
Maria PuglieseLast Name
September 11, 2014
I think of you often Rosaleen especially when I ride my bike and especially on this day. May God Bless you and comfort you. I lost my sister in 2011 and its a pain I cannot find a word to describe. Prayers for you and your family
janet
January 12, 2013
Hi Yolanda, i was once your neighbor in Rosedale, i rememner you walking buy after work pass our house and simply smiled after a long hard day at worked. You relalized i got married and told me "why didnt you tell me you were getting married, i would have loved to sing at the church" Those are the last words i remember Yolanda telling me. R.I.P
Ken Richards
September 11, 2012
my cousin annette and I were taliking about Yo tonight, remembering her as such a wonderful person, and the voice of an Angel! Remember you always
September 8, 2012
God bless you and your family , most especially your Dad , who misses you terribly. I know that you are watching over him everyday. We will NEVER forget. I am sure you are singing with the angels .
Mary Yolanda Dowling
November 15, 2011
September 12, 2011
Dear Yo!
Ten years.......sometimes it feels like an eternity, and at others, it feels like a day or so. This weekend, brought back so many memories of loved ones gone ahead of me. I Thank God for our upbringing and the belief that those that have gone before me, are all together dancing, singing and being our guardian angels. Put in a good word for those of us that have yet to come!
Maria P
September 11, 2011
He will raise you up on eagles' wings bear you on the breath of dawn,make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of his Hands... Rest in Peace.....
September 11, 2011
Hi, my name is Mak Dowling. I am from Leixlip, county Kildare Ireland. I heard Yolandas name being read out at the tenth anniversary of 9-11 and was moved and suprised to hear a Dowling was among those people who perished on that awful day ten years ago. I felt compelled to learn a little more about Yolanda. Thank you for the connection of this lovely website. XXX
Pat Guth
September 11, 2011
Yo, thinking of you especially today. It is hard to believe that you have been gone for 10 years. While I and millions of others still remember that day with great sadness, I think of our friendship and our many antics at Westminster Choir College with David and Neal and the others and I still laugh and smile! You were a wonderful friend! May God be with us all on the anniversary of 9/11.
Mary Yolanda Dowling
September 10, 2011
Yolanda's Song
September 10, 2011
Mary McArdle-Monaghan
March 14, 2011
Dear Yo,
I often tell my kids about how much simpler and kinder life was when we were young. At one time, the biggest decision we (you, Rita and I) had to make was which band was playing where and if we were in the mood for the irish dances in either Queens or the Bronx. I think of you often and still recall your amazing voice.
Patricia Coady
September 12, 2010
Dear Yolanda,
Like a whispering prayer, I have felt you nearby over these years. Especially, now, as I am a member of the 'Aon Family.' Thanks for sharing the strength of your faith.
James Dowling
August 7, 2010
The Lord's Prayer (In The Gaelic)
Arn Athair a ta air neamb,
Thigeadb do rioghachd.
Deanor do thoil air an talamb,
mar a nithear air neamb.
Tabhair dhuinn un diugh
ar n-aran laitheil.
Agus maith dhuinn ar faichan
amhuil a mhaitheas sinne
d'ar luchd-fia fiach.
Agus no leig ann am buaireadh
sinn: ach saor sinn o olc:
oir is leatsa an rioghachd, agus a
cumbachd, agus a ghloir,
gu siorruidh.
Amen.
May we all be blessed to hear her sing it as praise in the coming Glory.
Kathleen Flynn
November 19, 2009
Mary Yolanda Dowling touched my life briefly when we were co-workers at Pfizer Inc. Her desk was just across the aisle from my office, and on some afternoons I'd hear the sound of her lovely voice, sometimes softly singing the words of a song, other times merely humming -- always beautiful and uplifting. For her family, I'm sure the feeling of loss, though always there, is even deeper during the holidays. I hope it gives them some comfort to know that so many friends remember her fondly and miss her.
Doug Abraham
July 22, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
May 27, 2009
Tomorrow my youngest son graduates from Alonso High School in Tampa FL. This brings to mind my own graduation from Dominican Commercial High School. Mary (that's what we called you then) graduated with me that year-class of '73. I pulled out my old yearbook to show my son. I look through it often and think of and remember Mary Dowling fondly. So I wanted to mark the occasion by visiting today to say that I still remember you Mary and know that you are well, safe, whole, free! and looking into the most beautiful face Ever-the face of the Savior! Paula Iffla Jones Tampa FL
Parag Sheth
April 1, 2009
She is singing with the Angels now.
Eunice Tucker
March 31, 2009
God Bless You!
Eddie Morales
March 31, 2009
We (myself,Gina) had the privilege of having Yolanda sing in our wedding. When she sang "Ava Maria" she truly had a voice of an angel.
Eileen O'Farrell Rose
December 16, 2008
I did not know Yolanda but I try to keep her memory alive in my own way.
Shortly after 9/11, Yolanda's dad gave my brother, John O'Farrell, one of Yolanda's sweaters to give to a family member. It is an Irish Knit sweater/cardigan. It did not fit my mom so John gave it to me. Everytime I wear it, I think of Yolanda. If someone compliments me on the sweater, I tell them the story of the original owner - Yolanda.
This past Election Day as I was waiting on line outside to vote, the lady in front of me complimented me on the sweater. I told her the story of Yolanda and she replied "Thank you for telling me that story, we need to remember." Tears welled up in both of our eyes.
I wish Yolanda's family a very Merry Christmas.
Kenny
November 27, 2008
Yo,
only found out about this while searching for something. wish I had kept in touch. i know you are smiling at us from heaven
November 25, 2008
Warm Summer Sun
Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.
By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation
Ronda Dowling-Salsbury
September 24, 2008
I too am a Dowling and came upon this site while searching for information on the Dowling family. I live in rural Missouri, but I will never forget the tragic day that took the lives of so many innocent people.
Kelly Harris
September 11, 2008
Dear Aunt Yolanda,
As I am planning my wedding to my wonderful fiancé Adam, seven years after 9/11, I am reminded of the stories I have heard of my parents wedding. They will always remember your beautiful rendition of Ave Maria as one of the highlights of the day. There is no doubt in my mind that I would have asked you to sing it for our wedding, like I had imagined as a little girl. I am so sorry you can’t be there with us.
My Dad and Mom talk about you often and treasure the friendship you had. Trust that your memory is kept alive in the Harris family. We miss you so much!
Love always, Kelly (Gregory and Maura Harris’s oldest child)
September 8, 2008
God bless you Yolanda
William McDonald
June 13, 2008
May God hold you in the very hollow of His hand, Mary. From the description of your exhuberance and giftedness, you were certainly a young wonder, and a blessing to those who loved you.
No doubt we were cousins, as I also descend from the Dowling clan.
May you rest in the Peace only God can give.
William McDonald
Kiley Dowling-Stedman
Kiley Dowling-Stedman
August 9, 2007
Doug Abraham
July 22, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Thomas Doolin
May 24, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Kristine
November 2, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 28, 2006
In remembrance....
Pat Guth
September 11, 2006
Thinking of you lots today, Yo. May God bless all your family and friends on this difficult anniversary.
A former classmate
September 11, 2006
Dear Yolanda...
I went thru the first four years of my education with you at St. Clare's School. We made our 1st Holy Communion togther, played at recess and rode the School Bus. I just recently realized that you were among those that left us on this day 5 years ago. I am sending you and your family my thoughts and prayers and am sorry I never got to hear you sing. From what I am reading on here..you had a beautiful voice. Now you can sing with the Angels in heaven. God Bless you Yolanda.
Gregory Harris
September 10, 2006
Dear Yo,
In the spirit of a great New York tradition, I would like to present my Top Ten Memories/Mementos I still have, and will always have, of you:
10. The large gleaming ceramic "Rx" mortar that sits on the shelf in our kitchen that you gave me when I told you I was going to be a physician.
9. The never-fail yearly Christmas, Birthday and Anniversary cards you sent.
8. My brother Andy taking you to your senior prom at Dominican Commercial, and the souvenir mug that he passed over to me after he got married. It sits on my dresser to this day.
7. Accompanying you on the piano at the DCHS talent show, with you singing "Climb Every Mountain". I cannot hear that song without a tear in my eye.
6. The two Tupperware sandwich containers you gave us early on in our married lives; they have survived through six children!
5. The Irish Blessing ceramic plaque you brought back from Ireland. It survived a fall off the TV with just a slight corner crazy-gluable crack.
4. Playing the organ for the weekly 5 PM Saturday Mass at St. Clare's in Rosedale, with you as leader of song. I still don't play the pedals.
3. The beautiful, soft pair of brown leather gloves you gave me to keep my pianist hands warm.
2. Going with you as chaperone to a New Year's Eve party where I met my future wife, Maura.
1. Your beautiful singing at our wedding 29 March 1980. "Ave Maria" has never sounded so sweet!
True friends are few and far between. We miss you. Yo, we will always love and remember you, Greg and Maura Harris, and kids (Kelly, Greg Jr., Kathryn, Julianne, Matthew, and Elizabeth)
Patricia Guth
April 28, 2006
Yo, I thought of you a lot today as I watched the new film, United 93 and as our 25th college reunion nears. I remember how exciting it was to be at our 20th reunion just 5 years ago. Little did we know that in just a few short months, we would lose you. You and your family are always in my prayers. I miss your friendship here on earth but know that you are undoubtedly directing the choir of angels up there in Heaven. How lucky they are!
Jason Dowling
January 10, 2006
LIAM DOWLING
October 24, 2005
R.I.P
Cathy Markert-Jakubowski
September 27, 2004
I met "Yo" at Westminster Choir College and only recently learned of her passing. Even through I knew her for only a short time so many years ago, I can easily recall her wonderful voice and smiling face. It saddens me deeply that the world has lost such a lovely person. I'm sure that Our Lord has a special place for her in Heaven.
Theresa Pellicano
September 11, 2004
I first met Yolanda at the Spirit Life Center in Plainview, LI. New York. She so impressed me with her kindness and her gentleness. I do remember her singing at the Sunday night prayer meeting. She was so approachable and unprentious. My prayers are with the Dowling family.
Mary Liegey
September 11, 2004
It's September 11th, 2004 and I was just thinking of the first time I met Yolanda. It was at the Irish-American Center in Mineola, NY. I will never forget this friendly, talented person. She and her family are in my prayers.
Mary Liegey,
Floral Park and Spokane
Leslie Blair
July 28, 2004
To Rosaleen and her family,
I was thinking of you and Yolanda today. I wonder now reviewing her guestbook if it wasn't related to her birthday. My heart is with you, knowing too well the loss of a beloved sister. Wishing you peace and harmony. With love, Leslie
Rosaleen Shea
December 24, 2003
Dear Yolanda,
Thinking of you in heaven this Christmas - you are present to all of us always - we miss you and love you. Please sing "O Holy Night" for us with the angels - we will hear you in our hearts - you always loved the peace of Christmas night. I still remember you pulling back the curtains Christmas Eve when you were thirteen and I was five years old and telling me you just saw Santa and his reindeer flying through the sky - you always made Christmas magical. You will always be our family's Christmas magic - Robert and Mary Kate send their love.
Love,
Rosaleen (sister)
Terry Chartier
September 14, 2003
Yolanda, two years have past and just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you.
You sat behind me and I always thought you very kind hearted and saw the good in everyone.
Helen Daly
September 10, 2003
Your Second Anniversary in Heaven is here - How beautiful for your family and others to hear your beautiful voice at Shea.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Rosaleen Shea
July 24, 2003
Dear Yolanda,
Happy Birthday in heaven (July 22nd) - Mary Kate, Robert, Fr. McBrien and I visited your tree and I hope you received the kids' balloon/cards in heaven! We all miss you here on earth!
Love,
Rosie
Karen Sussex
June 18, 2003
To the Dowling family, I have no idea why but I heard a name in my head after September 11. It was Lani? Dowling. I looked it up right after that and found your family name. I was very surprised to see her name (nickname) in the list before I signed the national book of remembrance. I don't know why, I didn't know anyone personally but it was still a very personal thing to my family. I just wanted you to know. Sorry it took so long to for me to tell you. I feel she's one of my angels. I pray for her and you often. Sincerely, Karen Sussex
Chris Dowling
November 5, 2002
May I, on behalf of my branch of the Dowling Family, express our condolenses, on the sad demise of such a lovely young Lady.
May God Bless and keep you all.
We will remember you in our prayers.
Patty Dolan Thiel
September 14, 2002
Yo -- Everyday when I look at your picture, I hear you sing. I miss you here on this earth, but I am so grateful you were with for as long as you were. Now you and Aunt Mary -- your mother, my godmother -- are making ready for the day we can all be together again. Love, Patty Lou
Maryanne Carney
September 12, 2002
I was so saddened to hear of Yolanda's death. As you may recognize my name, I grew up across the street from the Dowling home and Yolanda & I commuted to NY together on the LIRR the year I graduated from College and lived with my parents. We both lost touch after I moved into Manhattan but I too, was a victim of 9/11, because I worked at 6 World Trade Center for the U.S. Customs Service. I am one of the lucky ones who lost everything but I am alive and now relocated to Port Elizabeth, NJ. My prayers go out to the Dowling family. I still remember hearing your father play the bagpipes when we were growing up on 243rd Street & I know how important music was to Yolanda. I am sure she is singing in heaven with her mother.
John Dowling
September 12, 2002
I write my note on behalf of Australian Dowlings who shared a common celtic heritage with Mary: a love for her God, her family, her music, her friends, her Church, her country.
We were greatly saddened to hear her name read out yesterday. We did not know her but somehow we knew of her.
I will say a prayer every time I pass St Marys Cathedral in Sydney for her and her family and friends.
The night sky of this great southern land will show her star in heaven shining upon us all. I wish you all well.
Nanette Hernandez
September 11, 2002
To the Dowling Family,
My heart goes out to you. I am a friend of your cousin's(Erin Dolan). Life is about being surrounded by people you love. When they are taken away from you you miss them. However, missing them is part of having had them and that in itself is special.
Glendia Bost
September 9, 2002
Yolanda, you were a wonderful co-worker and I thank you for showing me the ropes when no one else had the time. Also, I thank you for complimenting me on my pink dress. I'm sure God needed you there because he needed to hear your beautiful voice in person.
Robert, Nancy, Dustin and Laura Sutton
September 8, 2002
In memory of Mary Dowling
We did not know Mary, but my husband is the brother of Cam Sutton who works for Aon. I came across this on the internet and wanted to express our deepest sympathy. I have thought of all the lives lost that day and especially of the ones from my brother-in-laws office and it still hurts deeply. Our deepest deepest sympathy to the family.
Nancy Sutton
Nancy Daly
September 7, 2002
I knew you as "Lani" and met you thru Aon Risk Services, where you helped me and my employer insure that our thousands of foster kids were kept safe. How sad and ironic that we could not do the same for you! Please know we appreciated your work and will carry it on. And our conversations about Celtic quilting will be treasured memories... I will be wearing a heart with your name at Seattle's choral tribute on 9/11/02, and I will be thinking of you and your family. God bless you!
Marsha Allen
September 5, 2002
YOLANDA: IT HAS BEEN ALMOST A YEAR SINCE I LAST SAW YOU ON THE 7:32 AM TRAIN OUT OF ROSEDALE. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU ON THAT FATEFUL MORNING AND WHAT STAYS IN MY MIND IS THE THOUGHT I HAD THAT MORNING "HOW TERRIFIC YOU LOOKED". I REMEMBER YOU WERE DRESSED IN A BLACK AND WHITE OUTFIT AND I REMARKED TO MYSELF THAT YOU LOOKED WONDERFUL. I MISS YOU AND THINK OF YOU OFTEN. BE WITH GOD. I KNOW YOU HAVE ADDED A BEAUTIFUL VOICE TO HIS HEAVENLY CHOIR. PEACE.
Paul Dowling
September 5, 2002
It's coming up too a year since that day. Too come across someone who shares my name has made me think again about the familys who have lost one that they love. For Mary's family I hope the pain has dulled a little.I was in the US that day and will never forgot the shock then the pulling toghter of a nation. Out of pain and evil came a better nation.
Bonnie Southwick
September 5, 2002
A couple weeks after the 9/11 tragedy, our church handed out angel pins and asked us to pray for the person whose name was written on the pin. I received a pin with "Mary Yolanda Dowling" on it, and since then I have prayed for her and her family. I often think about her--who was she, what were her interests?--and today I happened to come upon this website. I now know that she was a wonderful and cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and coworker who loved to sing and obviously touched many lives. What a special person! Please know that I will always remember Yolanda and her family in my prayers. God bless you all.
mickey rogers
September 1, 2002
to the dowling family i am very sorry for the loss of mary yolanda .i to use to live in rosedale
Sara Roberts
August 27, 2002
My heart was heavy to learn that Yolanda had passed away in the World Trade Center. I have only now found a place to express my memory of her. I knew Yolanda for a very short time. I had the great pleasure of hearing her sing at her brothers wedding in San Diego. For that short amount of time that she was here in San Diego she made a lasting impression on me. I can still hear her voice and see her singing in the church. I was amazed that a human could sing so beautifully! My condolences to the Dowling Family. All of you are in my thoughts whenever 9-11 is talked about.
Mary Benedisuk
August 14, 2002
Dear Yolanda, You had come a few times to our cell group meeting in Queens. It is part of John Michael Talbot's community - the Brothers and Sisters of Charity. On behalf of everyone in the community we miss you and your voice which intoned not just beauty but a loving cheeriness in your speech. We will pray for you and know that we now know another special angel in heaven.
Timothy Dowling
August 13, 2002
I finally had the courage to look up this memorial. First thing I did was look to see if any Dowling was caught in this mess. Little to be known I did find a Dowling. I am saddened to here of her loss. It is nice to know reading these thoughts of her she was blessed by GOD. We Dowlings are related one way or another and I feel that a part of me is missing that I never knew or will know. I have found childhood friends were also caught up in this and amazed that I actually was able to know so many people. It is actually a big world to travel but a small world when you find out who you know in it. My blessings to the Friends, Family, and Dowlings that knew Yolanda.
Timothy Dowling formally of L.I. N.Y.
Julianne Bambrick McCullagh
July 22, 2002
Yo, Happy birthday. Every birthday is measured against that wonderful backyard pool party you had on your sweet 16th way back in 1971. I knew you when your slightly bawdy sense of humor would burst out in the middle of "deep conversations" bringing us all back to reality. Our last conversation just a week or so before the whole world changed, we said we would continue this conversation. Well, since I think of you so often, I suppose we are and always will be continuing the conversation. You were one of my dearest friends. Love, Juli July 22, 2002
Bridget Burke
April 1, 2002
I went to high school with Mary Dowling, as she was known then, and I remember her beautiful voice in the Glee Club. While I don't think I've seen her since our 20th reunion, my heart goes out to her family and friends who still have to bear the sorrow of her loss. I pray for her and others I knew that perished that day and hope her family will find peace in their hearts someday.
Rose Ravennati
March 11, 2002
Yolanda, I have been blessed to have known you for most of my life. I have always felt as if I was a part of your family, the Italian addition. Your love of music has touched my heart and soul, not a time goes by when I hear Danny Boy that I think of you singing that song so beautifully in your living room in Rosedale at the after party on Rosaleen's Wedding Day. Your voice and your Father's pipes have always made each occassion extra special. Rosaleen's friendship has been one of God's most precious gifts to me, and with that friendship I have gotten the gift of being a part of the Dowling Clan. You have touched so many lives in a way I could only try to. I know that you are safe with the Lord now, and you will watch over all of us as you did when you were here. We miss you and love you. Thank you for all the cherished memories, I will never forget you.
Stephen Lalor
March 10, 2002
It has been six months almost to the day that I left my friend at the Atlantic Avenue Subway stop to go off to our respective offices. As I write this even now, tears are streaming down my cheeks as I recall the beautiful day it was and how we parted ways anticipating the upcoming weekend plans. I will never forget this woman who touched my life so deeply and I know she is watching over all her loved ones to perhaps be a poignant reminder of making a good effort to live a good life and be our brother’s keeper. I loved her so much and hope her family and I can heal somewhat, but always of course her memories will live within us all forever. For us September 11th 2001 was our “American Pie”, (The day the music died). May God Bless this family and our country and may we all grow from this tragedy.
Brian Dowling
March 1, 2002
I did not know Yolanda I am a family history 'one-Name researcher for the name of Dowling.
Like many everywhere I felt the tragic emptiness on the day but on finding a Dowling in the list (who loved music and her Celtic roots as I do) I was more profoundly saddened than before. Heart-felt condolences to all who knew her and I wish you the strength to forget when she was lost and remember when she touched your life.
Paul McGrath
February 19, 2002
Yolanda or Yodle-lady-landa as I called her affectionately, was an inspiration and a Godsend to me as I spent many a lonesome day at sea while in the service. She was a very special, caring friend who took the time to write to me just about every day when I was at sea and far away from home. Her humorous and insightful letters would be bundled up awaiting our return to port and with eager anticipation I would devour every one of them. There is no doubt in my mind that God had sent her into my life at that time as an angel of mercy. Though we lost touch as we went our own ways over the years, I have never forgoten those letters and pictures of hope that greeted me after each weary journey. There is no doubt in my mind that we will once again meet on distant shores to relish in the joy of the eternity and the splendor of the majesty of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Presentation BVM Prayer Group
February 11, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers to the family of Yolanda. God Bless
Prayer Team at Presentation BVM
Jane Hardin
February 5, 2002
I too wear a bracelet bearing Yolanda's name on it. My most heartfelt prayers go out to Yolanda's family and to all who loved her. I know she is singin in heaven now with God's angelic choir.
Eric Ryan-Johnson
January 24, 2002
As friends and fellow musicians of Yolanda's cousins, Jode & Martin, we express our sympathy at the loss of a Dowling, and a musician.
Eric, Kara & Seamus
Bettye Chodak Kelley
January 22, 2002
To the Dowling Family
As a former Rosedale resident I was saddened to hear of Yolanda"s passing. She baby sat for my children numerous times and I spent many a day visiting with Mary,Sr. We we friends from the neighborhood and I watch all you children grow. One of my fondest memories were of Chris playing his bagpipes up and down the street. My heart goes out to you all on the loss of a percious wonderful child and sister.
Bettye Chodak Kelley
wendy lee
January 18, 2002
I recently joined Yo's alma mater, Westminster Choir College as the Alumni Director and am saddened that I will not have the pleasure of meeting Yo in person. As I learn more about Yo from her beloved classmates, she was a true delight to the lives she touched. I look forward to viewing videos of her.
rosaleen dowling-shea
January 17, 2002
To all of Yolanda's friends and colleagues - On behalf of the Dowling family, I want to thank all of you sharing memories of Yolanda on the websites - we now get glimpses into her life outside the family. She was a sweet special woman. We miss her so much, especially Dad - he listens to her singing and watches her videos everyday. Lucky for us, God gave us an angel in our family who sang so beautifully - we have a legacy. We know she is in heaven with our Mom watching over us.
Helen Daly
January 16, 2002
Yolanda,
How sad I was to learn of your loss. We all - at Valley Fitness - remembered you fondly. You would sing a song even as you worked out. You always had a kind word for everyone. How sweet a thought to know you are now in Heaven singing with all the angels. May God Bless You Always and my condolences to your family your their great loss.
Joe Brown
January 16, 2002
Yolanda -- I was so sorry to hear you were lost. I was a grade school colleague of yours at St Clare's. (You probably never knew it, but I had quite the crush on you back then.) Yours will always be the face I remember when I recall the tragedy of 9/11. My heartfelt condolescences to all your dear ones who suffer your loss much more immediately then I.
January 12, 2002
DEAR LORD BLESS MARY YOLANDA DOWLING
AND MAY SHE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD
AND HIS ANGELS...MAY SHE BE IN GODS
CHOIR IN HEAVEN...GOD BLESS HER GOOD
IRISH FAMILY AND ALL HER FRIENDS.GOD
BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AMEN
Teresa Jahn
January 4, 2002
May Yolanda's musical talents, her life and love continue living in those who have been touched by her life. May the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by the warm memories of times shared with Yolanda. We are deeply sorry for your loss. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Frank
January 1, 2002
Yolanda,your presence at our prayer group was a direct blessing of a loving God. I was always so touched and blessed when you sang spiritual songs and gave such moving testimonies of what the Lord was doing in your life. I was just a volunteer in the cafe, but you took the time to encourage me and everyone else despite your own hurts and difficulties. You always reached out to others through conversation, song and a helping hand. Thank you for your encouraging words that last time I saw you at mass, they were truly from God. Your faithfulness was, and will always be, a great inspiration to all who had the priviledge of hearing you sing and share. God grant you the rest you so richly deserve and heal your heart forever as you reign with Him in joy and peace.
Joe Kirby
December 31, 2001
Though I did not know Yolanda, like many others our lives we deeply touched by the loss of life on 9/11. Today I wear a bracelet bearing Yolanda's name as a constant reminderof this tragic event.
Rhonda Dowling
November 24, 2001
Yolanda is so sadly missed by myself and her nephew Christopher. I know she is in heaven singing with the angels. We love you, Yo!
Barbara
November 20, 2001
Yolanda,
I was so happy to see you on Sept 6th and give you a hug. Little did I know what was about to happen in just a few short days. Rest in peace and watch over us always.
Barbara
Glenda Alvarez
November 16, 2001
Yolanda, I surely miss you and our morning talks. How exhilarated you were when you talked of your music! I can envision your lovely eyes brightening at the thought.
You were my first contact the day I started at Aon, and it was indeed a pleasure. I can remember your voice was so distinct, that I recognized you as a singer. You were amazed and flattered. I guess I'll never hear you sing the duet you promised to with Peter Webster, another singer from our office or Gianni Schicchi's "O mio bambino caro". I always told you that you had the voice for that aria. Most of all, I was impressed with your spirituality. You always seem so refreshed when you returned from the Retreats - you seemed to be walking on air.
I can imagine you now - singing in heaven with all of the other angels. May you rest in peace.
kimberley hess
November 15, 2001
Voice of an angel sounds lovely, but now a true angel of heaven who will watch over us and with God's help keep us all safe from any harm.
God Bless you Mary and your family~!
kimberley hess
cambridge
Leslie Blair
November 8, 2001
My deepest sympathies go out to Rosaleen and her family. Yo sounded like such a wonderful person. And I must also express my profound gratitude to Rosaleen for helping me and so many other Aon families try to find information about our missing loved ones. Because of Rosaleen, I have some comfort in knowing some of the last moments of my own dear sister's life. Words can not express the loss of a beloved sister. May the memories eventually bring you peace and may you enjoy music and life once more.
Debbie Wilson
November 7, 2001
With heartfelt sympathy.
I will never forget this sad and tragic loss.
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