Edward Dowling, (1898–1960), also known as Father Ed, was a Jesuit priest and spiritual advisor to Bill W., co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous.

His paternal grandfather emigrated from Ireland in the mid-1800s and opened a railroad construction company, which his father also managed.

Dowling raised funds for a modest headstone, saying, "[I]f someone some day wants to put up a better monument it will at least be known where Dred Scott lies.

[3] Dowling then met with AA co-founder Bill W. by arriving at his door unannounced late in the evening.

He continued directing struggling alcoholics to the organization, and by the summer of 1940, with his help, Dowling's native St. Louis had its own AA chapter.