Jean Clare Downs' Obituary
Jean Clare Downs (nee Ellis), 89, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and mother-in-law, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 6, 2025.
She was born on May 17, 1936 in Maddox, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Mary Agnes and Walter Benjamin Ellis. Jean graduated from Saint Mary’s Academy in Leonardtown in 1954.
Jean is survived by her children, Fay A. Hemming (David) of Arcadia, FL and Joseph R. Downs (Karen) of La Plata, MD; granddaughter, Tamara Mitchell of TX; sisters, Alice Ann Thompson (Thomas), and Dena Hozik (Rick Marsh); brother, Terry Ellis (Wanda); and many dear relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Mitchell Downs; grandson, Jesse Mitchell; and sister, Helen Elaine Perry (Jack).
Jean married the love of her life, Joseph Mitchell Downs, on September 25, 1954. Jean was an incredibly devoted wife and they enjoyed 62 years of marriage.
Jean was a devout Catholic and was a longtime parishioner at Saint Peter’s Church in Waldorf before moving out of state. She was a loyal retiree from Safeway food store where she worked as a cashier. Jean enjoyed dancing with her husband, singing hymns, going to the beach, gardening, nature and entertaining family and friends with her gracious hospitality and delicious meals.
Jean will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 23080 Maddox Road, Bushwood, MD 20618. The family will receive friends one hour prior. Inurnment will take place at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated.
What’s your fondest memory of Jean?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jean?
Share a story where Jean's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jean you’ll never forget.
How did Jean make you smile?
