Phillips Melville Dowding Sr

It was always fun to reminisce with Phil about what Newport News was like when we were young. I will always remember He and Merle with a smile!

Mom and dad had some great times at the WYCC playing tennis and boating with your dad and mom. Phil was a fun man to talk to at the club and we miss him sitting at the bar. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tommy Batkins
Kathy Batkins Kutchen

Stopped by Mr Dowdings office on a few occasions over the years without an appointment for some quick advice. Even though he didn't know me, each and every time as I was leaving and asked what the charge was he just waved his hand and said no charge. Nice guy.

Philips alqays had a great story and entertauned us all at WYCC. He was a good friend to me during difficult times in my life. Merle and Anne my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

I am so sorry for your loss. Philps was so good at entertaining those at the bar at WYCC. Last time I saw him he was getting his hair cut. He was such a good friend to me during a difficult time in my life.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and especially Merle.

Phil was a great friend. I have many fond memories of Merle and him spanning from my early childhood. Merle, Pete, and Anne are in my thoughts and prayers. Here's to you, Captain Phil. This round is on me. Cheers!

I so enjoyed visiting and reminiscing with Phil and Merle at the Warwick Yacht Club. Merle and I worked together at the First National Bank years ago when it was on Washington Ave. It was always fun to share the memories and after she became ill, it was fun to sit with Phil at the Bar and talk about the "old days" in Newport News. The Club was not the same when they were not there and They will both be Missed terribly. My sincere sympathy to Ann and I hope Merle is doing as well as...

Phil was one of those dwindling number of great Newport News trial attorneys who came along in the '50's and '60's, fought it out in the courtrooms, but were loyal and fast friends elsewhere. And in both settings we had such fun together. I extend my deepest sympathy to Merel and the family.