Melvin Copeland Dowling

Melvin Copeland Dowling, age 83, of Eads, TN, died Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Baptist Reynolds Hospice House in Collierville, TN.

Born February 11, 1943, at Cairo, IL, to the late John H. Dowling, Sr. and Geneva Copeland Dowling, he grew up in Charleston, MO and later lived in Sikeston and Caruthersville, MO, where he was engaged in farming. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Caruthersville.

For over 52 years, he was married to the late Karen Tidwell Crenshaw, who preceded him in death on July 18, 2025.

Surviving are their children, Chris (Missy) Crenshaw, Christy Counce, Chance (Cheryl) Dowling, Renee Dowling Halterman and Dustin Dowling; nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, his sister-in-law, Pam (Bill) DeLine and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his son in law, Eric Counce and his brother and sister-in-law, John H. Dowling, Jr. and Beverly Morrow Dowling.

A private graveside service will be held at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery near Charleston, MO at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials be made to First Presbyterian Church, 701 Carleton Ave., Caruthersville, MO 63830

McMikle Funeral Home of Charleston is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com