Olivia Mary Dowling – Chardon, Ohio

Olivia Mary Dowling (Rodriguez) passed away in Chardon, Ohio, on October 30, 2025. She was born in Adrian, Michigan, on April 23, 1949, as one of eight children of Enrique (Henry) and Rose (Montez) Rodriguez. On June 22, 1974, Olivia married the love of her life, Jerry Dowling, and they celebrated 25 wonderful years together before Jerry’s passing in 1999. Known for her playful teasing, Olivia’s departure in her sleep was the least dramatic moment of her life. Though she offered excellent advice, she seldom heeded it herself. Olivia was famous for her homemade tortillas and loved cooking for anyone who appreciated a good home-cooked meal.

Olivia cherished her three daughters—Brandie (Brian) Adams, Catherine (David) Leonard, and Jerri Sue Dowling—just as much as she adored John Wayne. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Mya, Tyrique, Lydia, and Jalaya. The Dowling home was a sanctuary, always welcoming many foreign exchange students, reflecting Olivia’s inclusive and hospitable nature. She was a devoted sister to Henry (Norma) Rodriguez Jr., Arthur (Wiltred) Rodriguez, Peggy Rodriguez, Dolores (Roger) Sandefer, Robert Rodriguez, and Francis Pike.

Olivia was preceded in death by her loving husband and partner in life, Jerry Dowling; her parents, Enrique (Henry) and Rose Rodriguez; her brothers, Richard Rodriguez and Jessie Rodriguez; her in-laws, Dennis and Jackie Dowling; as well as sister in law, Karen Emero, her nephews, Allen Michael Crum and Eric Stevenson, and her niece, Ashley Rodriguez.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Olivia’s life on November 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Mapleview Country Villa in Chardon, Ohio. An additional celebration will be held on November 6, 2025, at Wagley Funeral Home in Adrian, Michigan, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Please come together to share your memories and honor the life of this remarkable woman.