It is with deep sorrow that we, the Dow children, announce the passing of our mother, Ernestine Elsie Adams Dow on December 29, 2024. Ernestine lived a long and fulfilling life passing just three days before her 98th birthday. She was born on New Year's Day, January 1, 1927, to Mildred Coleman and Ernest J. Adams in Great Barrington, MA. She resided in the Berkshires area until the age of 17 when she married Ensign Jack Dow (now deceased) who was an aviator in the United States Navy. Together they gave birth to and raised seven children, the last two when Jack was the Executive Officer followed by Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron 47 in Oak Harbor, Washington. They crisscrossed all over the country from Massachusetts to Rhode Island, Illinois, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Washington and Hawaii. Wherever they lived, they immersed themselves in their new communities and left an indelible mark. They still do, all over the world. Those children are William Dow, Jacqueline Cooper, Sharon Nassar, Michael Dow, Tracey Satterfield, Rebecca Pileckas and Frank Dow, all who survive her.
"Ernie", as she was fondly called, was an accomplished Navy wife and partner, active member of a church wherever she lived, a terrific golfer that could keep up with her husband, and a wonderful homemaker. She raised her large family with warmth and great fun with her lively sense of humor, contagious laugh and spirit for adventure. Ernie passed this on to all seven of her children. They were, without a doubt, her greatest source of joy and pride. She was also the proud grandmother to 23 children and great grandmother to 44 children and still counting!! Her family produced Naval Aviators, Professional Athletes, Successful Executives, Real Estate Moguls, Professional Musicians, Doctors, Dentists, Therapists, Television Announcers, Teachers, Financial Experts, Event Planners, Graphic Designers, Flight Attendants, Architects, Coaches, Lawyers and the list goes on.
Ernie's life was indeed amazing and the family she created will continue to grow and make major contributions to humanity through their careers and good works. She will be celebrated for many decades and has left us all with a formidable legacy.
May she rest in peace.