October 8, 1945- November 3, 2025
Gretchen Charlene Dowda, age 80, of Clear Lake, Texas passed away Sunday, November 2, 2025. Gretchen was born October 8, 1945, in Lake Charles Louisiana to Edith Bradley and Charles Lanz.
She graduated from Smiley High School where she was Homecoming Queen, National Honor Society member, and was in the band and pep squad. She married in 1964 and started her family. In 1970 she became a court reporter and worked in courts in Houston and later as an independent court reporter for over 40 years.
Gretchen loved being a mother, wife, grandmother and was looking forward to becoming a great-grandmother. She loved flowers, the beach (anywhere), hummingbirds, and her husband’s blue eyes. She was a fantastic runner, cyclist, swimmer, and triathlete. She was often on the podium at 10K runs, state and local cycling races! One tough Lady!
She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Terry Price; daughter, Tamara Van de Wyngard, and husband Roberto Van de Wyngard; son, Coleman Dowda; stepsons, Kelly Findley and Casey Price. grand-children, Caleb Dowda, Noah Dowda; step-grandchildren, Gavin Price, Gabriel Findley, Stephen Findley, Keane Findley, Kaitlynn Price, Elysia Findley, Corinne Findley, Charleston Price and was expecting her first great-grandchild.
Gretchen was preceded in death by Mother, Edith Bradley; Father, Charles Lanz; Brother, Bruce Lanz; Sister, Connie Fitch.
The memorial service for Gretchen will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the chapel at Jeter Memorial Funeral Home. Immediately following is a Celebration of her Life at 11:30 at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church Parrish Hall in Friendswood, Texas.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Shriners Children’s Hospital. https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en
5 thoughts on “Gretchen Charlene Lanz Dowda”
Gretchen was a wonderful sister in law. She was a sweet sweet lady. She loves to make carrot cake for the family to eat. She loves my brother and he loved her. She will be truly missed.
Sheila Price Duck
Terry, my heart breaks for you. I always loved seeing you and Gretchen together. Perfect fit. Love you cousin.
GG was always a breath of fresh air, always such an encourager to those in need. No matter the circumstances she would end her message to you ( This to shall pass )
A blessing to those that had the privilege of knowing her.
I will always remember her as my sister in law
Gretchen will truly be missed. Sending prayers and blessings for her journey home.
Carolyn Anderson
I am fortunate to have known Gretchen as a friend …. and as a tutor in the court reporting days. It was always nice to arrive back at the office and share our stories at the end of the day. She will be missed.