Dowdy Linwood Rich

Dowdy Linwood Rich, 75, of Bladenboro, passed away on October 29, 2026, at Premier Living and Rehab in Lake Waccamaw. He was born on November 6, 1950, in Cumberland County to the late Beulah Rich Smith.

Linwood will be remembered as a hard worker with a generous spirit and a heart for helping others. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back, and his kindness was often seen in the way he worked on cars and fixed them for people even when they had no money to pay. He loved singing and playing guitar, and those who knew him will remember a man whose talents and warm nature brought comfort and enjoyment to those around him.

Family was at the center of his life. He loved his family and grandchildren deeply, and many of their most treasured memories reflect his caring and encouraging way. He made sure his children stayed on top of their school work, showing his devotion not only through love, but through guidance and steady support. He also leaves behind sweet memories of taking Ashley on walks when she was little and of showing her new things while encouraging her to have no fear. In all of this, he revealed the best of who he was: a man with a generous heart, a strong work ethic, and deep love for those closest to him.

He is survived by his son, Lynn Rich (Tonia Gordon); his daughter, Tammy Coleman and her husband, Andy of Bladenboro; and his brother, Pete Pope of Lumberton. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Ashley Coleman, Cassandra Coleman, Robin Simmons (Josh), Brandon Rich (Kassidy Edwards), Amber Rich, Brittany Rich (Caleb Hester), and Nicholas Rich. His memory will continue in the lives of his great-grandchildren: Bryson Tatum, Brantley, Baxton, and Sadie Rich, as well as several nieces and nephews. May they carry forward the love, strength, and kindness he shared so freely.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Mae Rouse Rich; his brother, Donald Pope; and his sister, Deborah Ann Thompson.

A graveside service will be held on November 1, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Hickory Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 6414 Center Road, Bladenboro, NC 28320. Josh Simmons and Jimmy Ray Pope will be officiating the service.

Linwood Rich will be remembered with love for his giving heart, his devotion to family, and the many quiet ways he helped others. His life leaves a lasting impression on all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the funeral fund of Linwood Rich c/o Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home PO Box 3150 Elizabethtown, NC 28337.