Jackie Downey, age 86, of Jackson, Ohio, passed peacefully on September 18, 2014 in the presence of her family. She was born October 16, 1927 to the late James and Audrey Grow.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Karin and Mike O’Connor; grandsons, Wade Downey and Ryan O’Connor; granddaughter, Teresa Downey; great-grandchildren, Holly and Shayna Downey, Derek Henry, Dylan, Meranda, and Brody Downey, Chloe and Ethan Downey; great-great-grandsons, Isaiah and Ali Mayhew; brothers, James Jr., Charles “Spud,” and Barb Morris.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Don Downey; son, Donnie Downey; grandson, Darin Downey, sister, Cassell Dennison; and her brother, Okey Grow.
Jackie was a life-long resident of Jackson and was the owner of Audrey’s Diner on Athens Street. She was well known for her home cooking and homemade pies. The diner provided an atmosphere where people gathered and made lasting friendships.
After retirement Jackie and her husband Don and their adopted dog, Hobo began traveling. They camped with friends and family at Nascar races and the Ohio River and visited her brother Jim in Arizona. They enjoyed their visits so much they built a winter home there, which they enjoyed for many years. In later years, Jackie purchased a home which she freely shared with all family members. It was there that she spent her last several winters. After declining health limited her independence, her daughter Karin and other family members would drive her there to enjoy the sunshine. Her beloved “Kitty” always accompanied her. She will be missed greatly by many.
Visitation for Jackie will be at the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Jackson on Sunday, September 21, 2014 from 4 to 8 p.m. A service will be held on Monday, September 22, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.lewisgillumfuneralhomes.com