Dow W. Saunders, 67, of Gallipolis, Ohio was called to his heavenly home on April 21, 2024.  Born July 26, 1956, he was preceded in death by his beloved parents Alice R Saunders and Howard Baker Saunders.  He is survived by his sister, Betsy (Pat) Canaday of Rio Grande, and twin brother, John Saunders of Gallipolis. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Kate (Scott) Cooper, Ginger (Chad) Thompson and Holly (Justin) Wells, Chris, Scott and Luke Saunders and Jessi (Zac) Blanton, along with great nieces and nephews, Haley, Owen and Tyler Canaday, Briar, Brody and Beau Wells, Carson, Hudson and Hayes Blanton and countless special friends.

Dow graduated from Gallia Academy High School in 1974 with accolades in golf. He went on to attend Miami University and graduated from Rio Grande College and received his Masters degree from The Ohio State University. Dow served the Gallipolis community he loved dearly, first as City Commissioner at the age of 26, and later as City Manager where he took the reins in 2021 until the time of his passing.  Prior to becoming City Manager, he spent his career helping others as a Director of medical social services and social worker at Holzer Medical Center, Pleasant Valley Hospital and Select Specialty Hospital.  He also served on many community boards and councils.

He was also a prominent member of Christ Episcopal Church and St. Peter's Episcopal Church, where he served in numerous positions at both churches.

Dow cared immensely for his family and friends and enjoyed bringing comfort to others. He also had great passion for Ohio State athletics and the game of golf - especially The Masters tournament he frequently attended.

Dow will be missed by many and leaves a legacy of offering a helping hand. The family is deeply grateful for all those who have reached out and offered condolences and welcomes friends to a memorial service at 7:00 PM on Friday April 26, 2024 at the Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home, with visitation prior to the service from 4:00 – 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to either the Gallipolis in Lights project please make check payable to City of Gallipolis PO Box 1126 Gallipolis, Ohio 45631, in memo line write Gallipolis In Lights or the Gallipolis in Bloom project make check payable to Gallipolis In Bloom send to Ohio Valley Bank c/o Diane Parks PO Box 240 Gallipolis, Ohio 45631 in Dow's memory.

An online guest registry is available at waugh-halley-wood.com