Marion Caldwell Dowling was the 6th child born on the 6th day of the 6th month in 1936, to the late John and Okeller Dowling. He was the last surviving of the 11 children, all of which preceded him. Minnie Ranson, Rosa Nell Grant, Ivory Lee Kirkland, Odessa Caldwell, Haywood Alexander, Joe Louis, Felder, Roosevelt (Buddy), and Luther Dowling.

Marion was educated in the public school system of Bamberg County. He served in the United States Navy, aboard the U.S.S. Orion AS-18. After receiving an honorable discharge, he relocated to Brooklyn, New York. There he worked at Vaughn Bakery. Marion went on to work for the Path Railroad.

Marion united in holy matrimony to Georgia Mae Robinson, whom he affectionately called "Pork Chop"! She has also preceded him. Marion was a member of the Masonic Temple Tuscan Lodge #68 AF & AM in Bushwick Brooklyn. Once he relocated to Bamberg, he affiliated himself with Lodge #40 Ancient Free and Accepted Scottish Rite Masons of South Carolina.

After retirement Marion returned back to his hometown Bamberg, South Carolina. He attended Eden Baptist Church for many years.

Marion entered into eternal rest on September 28th, 2024. He leaves his memories to his loving niece Dawn Dowling; brother-in-law, Marshal Caldwell Sr.; sisters-in-law, Dianne, and Lillie Mae Dowling; extended Robinson family and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.