Catherine L. "Cathy" Dowdy , age 70, of Franklin, WV, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Pendleton Manor in Franklin, WV. She was born on January 10, 1956, in Baltimore, MD, the daughter of the late Joe Veston and Velma Catherine (Hedrick) Dahmer. On July 22, 1978, Cathy married the love of her life, Earl Lee Dowdy, who survives in Franklin.

Cathy was a 1974 graduate of Franklin High School and had worked for 27 years at Hanover Shoe Company. She had attended Franklin United Methodist Church and Friends Run Church of the Brethren and was the custodian of the Franklin Presbyterian Church for 17 years. Cathy was a past member of the Franklin Rescue Squad and Franklin Ruritan Club.

Cathy had a tremendous love for animals and enjoyed feeding the ducks and watching the deer. Cruising around in the side by side was also one of her favorite past times.

In addition to her husband, Cathy leaves behind to cherish her memory: a sister, Patricia "Patty" Simmons (David) of Franklin, WV; a sister-in-law, Margaret Dahmer; 2 brothers-in-law, Donald Dowdy (Mary), Dale Dowdy (Judy); and several nieces, nephews, and extended family in Virginia. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother,, Stanley Dahmer.

Cathy's family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 12-2 PM at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin, WV. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Tony Tiilley officiating. Interment will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Franklin, WV. Memorials may be made to Franklin Volunteer Fire Department, and Pendleton County Rescue Squad, PAWS, or charity of the donor's choice. Memories and words of comfort may be left www.basagic.com.