Warren State Dowson Jr.

Warren State Dowson, Jr., "Doc" passed away on January 15, 2026, at the William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Administration Hospital. "Doc" was born on May 21, 1950, in Honolulu, HI, to his parents, Chief Petty Officer, Warren State Dowson (deceased) and Jeanne Hoffert Cody (deceased).

"Doc" graduated from Orangeburg High School in 1968 and immediately enlisted in the United States Navy where he honorably served for four years. During his service onboard the USS Hornet, he participated in the Navy’s July 24, 1969 recovery operation of the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission.

Doc’s service in the Navy followed his father’s service with the Marine Raiders in WWII.

A graduate of Jones College in Jacksonville, Florida, where he received a Business Degree, he later was successful in his career in ship fitting and as a Quality Assurance Officer in the automotive support services. He enjoyed traveling both in his profession and for family gatherings. Doc enjoyed the golf game, loved to cook, and caring for his animals. He was an avid lover of movies and loved a great bowl of Blue Bell ice cream.

He is survived by his daughters, Hilary Dowson, Kendall Dowson and Candice Butler (Jonathan); grandchild, Morgen Butler; his sisters, Diane Finkelstein (Lester) of Charleston, SC, Susan Avriett (Alan) of Humble, TX, and Jeanne Hilko (Mike) of Humble, TX, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Shirlee Roberson of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and his brother, Rodger Cody, Jr. of Humble, TX.

As we reflect on the life of our beloved Brother, Father, Uncle, and Friend, Warren "Doc" Dowson, we remember him for his hearty conversations, crazy sense of humor, and especially the warmth he brought to everyone he encountered.

Services with military honors for "Doc" will be held at a later time and place.