Samuel Emory Dowling, 98

ROCK HALL, Md. - Samuel Emory Dowling, of Rock Hall, died Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2007, at Chester River Manor. He was 98.

He was born in Skinners Neck, Rock Hall, on Feb. 4, 1909, son of the late James and Harriet Blanche Cannan Dowling.

Mr. Dowling attended school in Skinners Neck and went to work at a young age to shuck oysters.

He continued his career as a lifelong waterman, while also working at Tolchester Amusement Park in the summertime for 32 summers.

He also worked with his son, painting in his later years, until the age of 80.

Mr. Dowling was married in the early 30s to Cora Thomas, who predeceased him in 1985.

He was a member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church.

He enjoyed working on lawnmowers and keeping busy.

He is survived by his two sons, Larry Dowling and his wife Ann of Rock Hall, and Charles "Socky" Dowling and his wife Jean of Chestertown; a sister, Blanche Dulgoborski of Rock Hall; seven grandchildren, Mike Dowling, Josh Dowling, Jimmy Dowling, Jodi Swartz, Betsy Hickman, Laura Barry, and Sam Dowling; 18 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be noon Monday at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, where relatives and friends may call one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Wesley Chapel Cemetery in Rock Hall.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Co., P.O. Box 577, Rock Hall, MD 21661.

Arrangements by Fellows, Helfenbein, and Newnam Funeral Home, Rock Hall.