Long-time North Myrtle Beach leader dies at 73

Long-time North Myrtle Beach spokesman Patrick Dowling died Saturday after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer three months ago.

He was 73.

After graduating from Fordham University in 1971, Dowling found his way to south, where he launched a long career in public relations, including stints at the Southport Chamber of Commerce in North Carolina and vice president of corporate communications for Burroughs and Chapin.

Dowling also worked as a public information officer in Myrtle Beach and most recently, North Myrtle Beach for the past 11 years.

Dowling’s daughter, Mary Bordonaro, said a public memorial service is planned for sometime in July.

In a statement to the media, Bordonaro said Dowling was diagnosed in February with glioblastoma multiforme and began chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

“The growth of the tumor was impossible to stop,” she said. Dowling switched to palliative care and died peacefully at home with his wife Debbie at his side. Dowling also had a son, Michael Bordonaro.

In the days following Dowling’s death, Mary Bordonaro said tributes and messages of support have poured in from people who knew and worked with him.

“From his sense of humor to his work ethic and willingness to help, everyone seems to have something to share about him. He gave so much to his community, and I know he took great pride in his work,” she said. “Pat was one of my favorite people on the planet, and my whole family misses him immensely.”

“He was a long-term employee, a great PIO, and a close personal friend of mine. He will be sorely missed by me and everyone here at the city,” North Myrtle Beach city manager Mike Mahaney said.

Myrtle Beach spokesman Mark Kruea said Dowling was a professional role model.

“He set the precedent for good communications and public relations on the Grand Strand, and we all followed in his footsteps. Pat was well-respected by his peers and coworkers,” Kruea said in a statement. “His historical memory of the Myrtle Beach area and its growth and development through the years was a treasure.”

This story was originally published May 10, 2022 at 5:00 AM.