Lorraine Downey

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 2, 2013 in Kerville, Texas at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Lorraine was born January 29, 1928 near the small Midwestern town of Essex, Ill. She overcame a crippling encephalitis attack at age 3, developed scarlet fever and was not expected to see her 4th birthday. Thanks to the Schriner's Hospital in St. Louis, MO, Lorraine overcame these childhood illnesses, married the love of her life, had two sons and lived a full and vibrant life. Lorraine was completely fearless and was willing to try almost anything. Though her right hand and right leg were paralyzed, she decided, as an adult, to learn to ride the bicycle. It was fortunate that both the bicycle and Lorraine were extremely durable. Lorraine could always sense when someone needed her and never turned her back on them. What few material possessions she had she would share, and she would give all. Lorraine had an unlimited and unending capacity for helping others, even if she had to go without, and even if she had nothing left to give but a kind word and a smile. Lorraine was a devout and long time member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, a loyal and unwavering servant of God, a loving wife, and immeasurably proud of her children and grandchildren. Lorraine's only regrets were the millions and millions of potential friends walking around in the world that she would never have a chance to meet. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wesley Leroy Downey, her parents, Henry and Margaret Rodgers Baade, a brother, Herman Baade, and three sisters, Bessie Avon, Lavonne Clendenning, and Dorothy Redden. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Klover family for always being there. Survivors include two sons, Joseph Downey and wife, Penny, of Kerrville, TX, and James Downey and wife, Kaaren, of Canyon, TX; a grandson, Matthew Downey, of Baton Rouge, LA; a granddaughter, Katheryn Downey, of Canyon, TX; and a sister, Leona Kirchner, of Essex IL. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations go to the Shriner's Hospital in St. Louis, MO. http://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/Hospitals/Locations/StLouis.aspx