Dr. Susann "Sue" Dowling

Dr. Dowling was instrumental in forming my professional career. Her gentle and compassionate demeanor is something that I tried to emulate every day in my practice. I was honored to have known her as a professor. Her legacy will remain with us. Wishing her family love and light during this difficult time.

My deepest sympathy to Sue's family. Dr. Dowling was the clinical coordinator for speech-language pathology at Wayne State University in the late 1970's when I was a student at Wayne. I have fond memories of her kindness and support to students. Karen Schultz O'Leary

Dr. Dowling was so instrumental in introducing me to the field of communication disorders. I took her anatomy class and other classes from her. She was such an intelligent, compassionate, and incredible individual. Saddened to hear this news. She had such a great impact on so many.

Dr. Dowling taught my anatomy class. I remember coloring, labeling and leafing through the Netter anatomy illustrations. She was kind and patient in both giving and receiving feedback, and her goal was always to help her students learn. She would conclude her lectures with a sweet expectant smile, saying, "Ask me a question," which often prompted shy students like me to speak up. I appreciated how humble, methodical, intelligent and so very kind she was. I still remember how she'd introduce each muscle with the name, orientation, attachment and function. So clearly and patiently taught! So thankful to have known her as a professor. Wishing her family peace and comfort.

We are so sad to hear this news. From the moment we met, Sue always showed so much love in the way she cared for things. She took exceptional care of the cats on the street, dogs in need, countless monarch caterpillars, her family, her plants, Jerry, and her neighbors. She will truly be missed for her warm smile and her caring nature.

Aunt Sue reminded me that I was loved even though we did not see each other often. Her kindness will always be remembered. She had a wonderful laugh and smile that would light the room. Uncle Jerry and Aunt Sue surprised me years ago when they came to Alaska on a cruise and they came again for my first wedding.
One of the most recent times I was blessed with her kindness was when she sent me a beautiful card. I had an unexpected accident that led to a lengthy hospitalization. She sent me a message reminding me how blessed she was to be my aunt.
She will be missed and I know my grandparents are welcoming her with open arms.
Thea Dowling

So sad to hear of Dr. Dowling's passing. She was a great, kind woman who influenced and inspired so many of us. Her legacy continues as those she taught now teach others. Wishing Gerald and her family peace.

I am so so sorry to be reading this!!!! Dr. Dowling (I still can´t call her just Sue) & Gerald will always have a special place in my heart. They helped me out in a very difficult time in my life and without their help, I would not be where I am today. So I owe her all of that!! She was so kind and patient and caring. She will sorely be missed by all who knew her. Sending her family lots of love and positive vibes

Sue and I were friends for over 50 years. We were colleagues in Detroit and Houston. We were also fellow docents. When I think of Sue, I remember her saying, "Art feeds my soul." She was a consummate docent, dedicated art lover and art creator (clowns and landscapes). She and Gerry were a loving couple, dedicated to their family and supporting others. She leaves a legacy of kindness and compassion. Lynn Bliss

My and Mark's thoughts and prayers are with Jerry and all of the Dowling and O'Connor families. My heart breaks for all of you.
My mother (Dorothy) choose my name for Sue, and she then later asked Jerry and Sue to be my godparents, for which I am very grateful.
I have enjoyed the occassional visit and many conversations we have had throughout the years. Jerry would answer the phone and tease me about Indiana weather and such, and then Sue would come on the phone. Sue and I could talked about everything from plants, work, life and family. Sue was proud of Rachelle, Tim and their families. During those conversations, Sue would often share with me their various achievements and milestones in their lives.
It was Sue that taught me that each of us should celebrate our accomplishments and the important milestones in one's life.
Sue was one of the most thoughtful and caring people I have ever known. My family and I are blessed to have known and had her in our lives.
I will miss her.
Love, Suzy and the O'Guin family

My condolences. Sue was such a wonderful person. She was a good family friend, fantastic god-mother to Suzy and dear friend of our mother Dorothy. She accomplished so much in her life and leaves behind a proud legacy in her family and career.