Martin Nathaniel Dowlen

Martin Nathaniel Dowlen age 92 of Clarksville went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 30, 2016, at Clarksville Nursing and Rehabilitation. He was born in Montgomery County on June 17, 1924, the son of the late Myles Dowlen Sr. and Emma Martin Dowlen. Martin was an electrician and worked in that field for several years. He later became a deputy sheriff and advanced in the department, becoming a lieutenant in criminal investigations. He holds the distinction of being the first black officer in the Montgomery County Sheriff Department. While in the department he assisted in the formation of Cops For Christ. He later became the electrical inspector for the city of Clarksville. Martin was a member and served as an Elder at the Hilldale Church of Christ. He is survived by a son Maurice N. Dowlen of Clarksville, and daughters Laqueline Cobb (Frank) of Detroit, Ronetta Roberts (Charles) of Clarksville, and Rita Ragin (Robert) of Clarksville. He is also survived by four grandchildren Michelle Shack (Samuel), Derek Cobb (Brandye), Shawndra Saunders (Sylvester), and Kimberly Dennis (James). He is also survived by seven great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Corene Hunter Dowlen who passed away in 2010. He is also preceded in death by brothers Myles Jr., Robert, George, Finis, and James Dowlen as well as sisters Gladys Dailey, Minnie Lee Carnell, and Mattie Dix. He is also preceded by a great grandchild, Kylee Cobb. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday January 5, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Hilldale Church of Christ with Bro. Steve Kirby officiating. Burial will be in Resthaven Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be on Wednesday January 4, 2017 from 3-7 P.M. at Gateway Funeral Home and for one hour prior to services at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Clarksville Christian School. Arrangements are under the care of Gateway Funeral Home and Cremation Center 335 Franklin Street Clarksville, TN 37040 Phone 931-919-2600. Online condolences may be made by going to www.gatewayfh.com.