Cheryl Dow

Bangor, Maine - Cheryl B. Dow, 65, passed away on January 17, 2026, at a Bangor hospital after battling cancer and anorexia. Born in Millinocket, Maine, Cheri was the daughter of Suzanne Dow.

Cheri graduated from Brewer High School and the University of Maine, where she studied special education. Her professional life was defined by over 40 years of unwavering service at OHI, where she served as the director of Supported Living Services, a member of the leadership team, a peer support specialist, and a member of the OHI board of directors. A dedicated leader and mentor, Cheri spent her career supporting people with intellectual disabilities and mental illness, helping them achieve independence and reach their personal goals. Cheri authored an Alzheimer's curriculum which was used to educate direct support professionals. Cheri was a rare beacon of warmth, possessing an innate kindness that drew people toward her in their darkest hours. As a genuinely compassionate soul, she didn't just hear words; she listened with her whole heart, offering a safe, non-judgmental space that allowed others to feel truly seen and understood. In times of struggle, Cheri offered dedicated support, bringing light to heavy situations through her gentle guidance and empathetic, unwavering presence. Her ability to be with those she cared for, providing hope when it was needed most, made her a transformative force in the lives she touched. Cheri made the world a better place.

Cheri was predeceased by her father; and her aunt, Dixie Lozier. Surviving, in addition to her devoted mother, Suzanne and her significant other, Carl Wood, are her cherished brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Ruth Dow and family of Windham, Maine; her aunt, Winnie Lozier of Gates, North Carolina; her niece, Ashley Dow Dubee; and her great-niece, Ava Blake Dube. Cheri will be missed by her dear friends, Mindy Ward, Sheila Cox, Katrina Thompson, Amy Nickerson, Wendy Benny and their pets; and by her beloved cat, Sammy; Miki MacDonald, her long-term healthcare provider is appreciated for her care for Cheri.

A celebration of Cheri's life will be held in the spring. Those who wish to remember Cheri in a special way may make gifts in her memory to: OHI, 203 Maine Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401, and Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mt. Hope Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401. Condolences to the family may be made at BrookingsSmith.com.