Lawrence V Dowd III

Lawrence (Larry) V. Dowd III, age 74 of Palm Harbor, Florida departed this life on January 2, 2025. Born on August 6, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts. A beloved Son, Husband, Dad, Papa, Brother, Uncle, Friend, and Coach.

He spent his childhood years moving across the country with his military family until settling in Clearwater. Larry attended Clearwater Central Catholic High School and went on to play football at the University of Florida, later graduating and earning a master’s degree from the University of South Florida. Directly out of college, he joined the Clearwater Parks & Recreation Department where his life would change forever, meeting his bride and leading a civil service career of 37 years.

Larry is endured by his adored wife of 49 years, Birgitt. Together, they raised a family which became the heart of his life. Along with daughters Kasey and Kattrina, son-in-law Anthony, and his treasured grandchildren Parker, Kenzie, and AJ, they mourn his passing.

He is survived by his sisters Barbie (Don), Kathy, Karen (Joe), Tina (Doug), Donna (Paul), brother Mike (Tara) and mother-in-law Elizabeth. Predeceased by his parents Lawrence and Florence, his sister Flowie, and father-in-law Jo, along with too many special extended family members and friends.

Larry loved being active, food, coaching, laying in a hammock, golf, the mountains, reading and any activity with his family, especially at a ball field. Sports are life! Professionally, he was honored and humbled to have championed the establishment and led instruction of many youth sports programs, along with set the standard for nationally recognized athletic facilities in the city. Sports Illustrated acclaimed Clearwater as their 50th Anniversary Sportstown. Towards the end of his career, Larry became a certified arborist. In retirement, he enjoyed serving the public part-time at the city of Tarpon Springs Golf Course.

Through his adult life, Larry had an innate ability and was dedicated to developing young people, to reach common goals and continually strive to do their best. From his time with the Florida Jr. Gators, Clearwater (American & National) Little League, Countryside Jr. Cougars, Countryside Little League, Clearwater Lady Bombers, Countryside High School (JV/Varsity Football & Softball) and Palm Harbor University (Softball), it’s almost impossible to tally the number of volunteer hours he’s amassed over the years. Additionally, he was delighted to coach Little League and contests with his grandchildren in a neighboring county. Among the success, state titles to world championships, it was always the relationships that meant most to him and the family. In October 2024, Larry Dowd Field was dedicated at Countryside Community Park. He was overwhelmed by the fellowship and gesture of that beautiful day.

Larry will be profoundly missed but his spirit will live on in those he has touched. His strength and positivity persisted throughout his battle. He leaves a legacy of love, devotion, generosity, and selflessness. His light will shine in hearts forever. Words cannot express the depth of gratitude to the Boone family, the Weiss family, the nurses of Empath Suncoast Hospice and his medial teams for their compassion and support.

Private arrangements will follow. In lieu of flowers, a remembrance donation may be made to Suncoast Hospice Foundation.