June 7, 1965 – January 1, 2026
The family of Dawn Renee Bowling is deeply saddened to announce her sudden passing on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Dawn was born on June 7, 1965, in Hampton, Virginia, to Earl and Jean Shepherd. From an early age, Dawn showed a caring spirit that would come to define her life. She had a natural instinct to look after others and never hesitated to help anyone in need—a quality that stayed with her always.
Dawn will be sadly missed by her Loving Partner, Chris Stout, her Mother Jean Navarro (Ernie); her Children, Josh Bowling (Trena), Christopher Bowling, and Mallory Bowling; her Stepchildren, Krisanne Bishop (Tom), Jennie Stout, and Kevin Stout (Carly); her siblings, Stanley (Jennifer) Shepherd and Todd (Trisha) Shepherd; her Stepsister Jennifer (Simon) Richard and Stepbrother Jeff Donalson, and her cherished Grandchildren, Chase, Carson, Kendall, Matthew, Logan, Harper, James, Finn, Noura, Nave, and Nina. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces, Sarah, Mary, Cassidy, Katie, Kelsie and Kalie and her nephews, Nicholas, Owen and Brendan.
Dawn was predeceased by her father, Earl and stepfather William Donaldson as well as many aunts and uncles.
A dedicated and well-respected Licensed Practical Nurse at Shannex, Dawn truly loved being a nurse. Caring for others was not just her profession—it was her calling. Her compassion, warmth, and commitment left a lasting impression on colleagues, residents, and families alike.
Outside of her career, Dawn loved traveling with her partner, Chris, and especially treasured her summers in Shediac, New Brunswick. She had an infectious laugh, an incredible sense of humour, and a smile that could light up any room she walked into. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and joy wherever she went.
Above all else, Dawn cherished her role as a grandmother. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them, filling those moments with love, laughter, and memories that will be held close forever.
Arrangements are under the care of Castle Fallsview Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave, Saint John, NB E2M 2L3, 506-634-1701. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7th, from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. A Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, January 8th at 10:30 AM in Castle Fallsview Chapel. Interment will be held at a later date in Ocean View Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dawn’s memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
