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PAJ Expresses Regret at the Passing of Junior Dowie
The Press Association of Jamaica is expressing its sincere regret at the passing of former award-winning Gleaner chief photographer, Junior Dowie.
A master of his craft, Dowie, who was honoured by the Government of Jamaica with the Order of Distinction for photo-journalism, died at a corporate area hospital today, after several months of illness.
Throughout his career he received countless awards, including the Caribbean Publishing and Broadcasting Association’s (CPBA) award for Outstanding Photography in 1978 and 1980 and was also a four-time Seprod Gold Medal awardee.
“Dowie had an eye for good photography; he was the consummate professional and the women at The Gleaner who came into contact with him speak of how much of a gentleman he was,” said president of the PAJ, Dionne Jackson Miller.
The PAJ executive said Dowie had left a legacy that will live on for years to come.
“During his 40th anniversary as a photographer, the PAJ paid tribute to his work by hosting a special exhibition at our former Old Hope Road Headquarters,” stated Jackson-Miller. The PAJ had also recognised him by naming its prestigious Award for Sports Photography in his honour.
Dowie joined The Gleaner Company as a photographer in 1953, and was later promoted to chief photographer, a position he held for over 30 years.
Lifestyle Editor at the newspaper, Nashauna Lalah, who worked with Dowie for many years, described him as one of the most humble, pleasant and chivalrous men she has ever met.
“As a young reporter at The Gleaner it was refreshing to have a colleague who always opened the car door for you without fail. They don’t make them like Junior Dowie anymore.”
The PAJ shares in the grief at Dowie’s passing, and extends condolences to his family and friends.