Doris Ann Mary Peterson Downey
1932 – 2024
Our dear mother, Doris Ann Mary Peterson Downey, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at the age of 91. She was born November 16, 1932 in Chester, PA to Harry E. Peterson and Mary Drane Peterson. Predeceased by her husband of 51 years, Paul Downey and two children, Joseph Edward and John Peter, she lived in the Trenton area most of her adult life. She is survived by her children, James Paul (Lisa Coats), Philip Francis (Lyn), Patricia Ann, Peter James and grandson, Patrick Joseph (Kathleen), and many close friends.
Services will be private.
Those who knew her will remember her tremendous pride in her Swedish heritage and her great love of horses. Doris was also a resolute proponent of literacy and creative writing, as evidenced by her many personal compositions as well as her tireless encouragement of others to do the same. Both community and family minded, she was a truly caring friend who reached out to everyone, including extended family members and those navigating the world alone.
An avid reader for her entire life, Doris also enjoyed many hobbies including word puzzles of any kind, baking, knitting, and volunteer work in both civic and private organizations. She was a proud member of the Ewing Township Patriotic Committee for many years, as well as Naomi’s Friends in Ewing Township. She was a dedicated supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital for Children, HomeFront of Trenton, Anchor House Ride for Runaways, Capital Singers of Trenton, and Good Shepherd of North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to one of these organizations or another of your choice.
She will live on in our hearts as our #1 Jimmy Buffett fan, and chocolate-loving Columbo-phile.
On behalf of the Downey family, we wish to extend a special “Thank You” to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff of Capital Health of Hopewell and the angels of Serenity Hospice at Robert Wood Johnson, Hamilton.
Funeral arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. OrlandsMemorialChapel.com/doris-downey
Sending you all lots of love 💕 and light🕯️and hugs 🫂 Wishing I could be there to support, but knowing you are having much needed Downey family time. Doris was the best MIL anyone could ask for and I’ll miss her. 🩵🕊️
~Lisa