Obituary of Ann C. Downes

OBITUARIES Ann (Crowley) Downes, 81, of New Britain passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 23, 2011, surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert M. Downes. Born in New Britain on May 2, 1929, Ann was the daughter of Joseph and Grace Crowley. She attended New Britain schools and later Salve Regina College in Rhode Island. She earned her BA in education from Central Connecticut State University and was a teacher at Mary Immaculate Academy in New Britain. Ann was also the director of religious education at St. Maurice Church, President of the Women's Auxiliary for the Hospital for Special Care, as well as the Chairmen of the NBHS Baseball Booster Club. Ann is survived by her children and their families. Karen and Ted Mankowski, Robert Downes and Ben Reynolds, Michael Downes, William and Shelly Downes, Brian and Connie Downes, and Jeffrey Downes; her cherished grandchildren Jennifer, Sarah, Mary Beth and Rebecca Mankowski, Mailene, Kian, Caitlin, Kateri and William Downes; and also her great granddaughter Ava Leach. She was predeceased by her son Steven Downes. Funeral services will be held Monday 9:00 A.M. from the Farrell Funeral Home 110 Franklin Sq. New Britain, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. at St. Maurice Church 100 Wightman Road New Britain. Burial will be private. Visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospital For Special Care 2150 Corbin Ave. New Britain, CT 06053. The Downes Family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Andrew House Health Care for care and support of their mother and grandmother.