Mary June (Housman) Downer, 88, of Sperry, Iowa, died on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, surrounded by her family at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington.
Born on June 1, 1936, she was the daughter of William and Eugenia (Kubish) Housman. On May 20, 1956, at Salem Lutheran Church in Salem, Iowa, she married Donald Downer.
Mary graduated in the class of 1955 from Sperry High School. She was a member of Salem Lutheran Church and then later a member of Peace Lutheran Church. Mary enjoyed quilting, sewing and caring for her flower and vegetable gardens. Most of all Mary loved being home with her children and raising the family. Her most enjoyable times were traveling, taking the kids on vacations, and camping. Mary instilled her faith in God in her children. She always made sure the children remembered their prayers before dinner and bedtime. Mary was gentle, kind, always smiling and was the most loving wife and mother. She was as beautiful as her favorite flowers Zinnias and Hibiscus.
She is survived by her husband Don; three children: Kevin (Suzanne) Downer of Sperry, Doug (Susan) Downer of Palm Bay, Fla. and Melody (Duane) Berenger of Burlington; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother John Housman; two sisters: Edith Johnson and Opal Weyrick-Payne.
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 21, 2024, at Burlington Memorial Park with Pastor James Zuehls officiating.