Maxine E. Downing

DOWNING, Maxine E., 92, of Springfield, went home to her Lord on Wednesday, May 14, 2014 in Vancrest of Urbana. She was born June 7, 1921 in Springfield the daughter of William C. and Pearl E. (Higgenbotham) Thomas. Maxine's family was her life's devotion, married to her wonderful husband, Freely G. Downing, Sr., for 59 years. She worked alongside him for 25 years as a bookkeeper and florist at their garden center in Springfield, spending her later years with her daughter. Survivors include her daughter Betty Sparks, Springfield; three grandchildren, Cynthia Brumfield, Teresa Matibag and Freely Downing, III; seven great grandchildren; special niece, Billie Pfifer and several nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Freely G. in 1997, one son, Freely G., Jr. in 2001, one brother, William C. Thomas, one sister, Doris Burkepile and a beloved canine companion, Amy Rose. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Richard Darr and the staff at Vancrest of Urbana for their extraordinary care. Funeral services will be held at 2:00p.m.on Monday in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME with Pastor John Ranous officiating. Visitation will be held 2 hours prior from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Ferncliff Cemetery.