Betty Downen

Betty Jean Downen, age 87 lifelong Shawneetown resident passed on this life, Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at her home.  Betty was born in Shawneetown on April 5, 1932 to the late Hank and Opal (Maynard) Deitz.  On April 14, 1949 she married the love of her life, Bob Downen who survives, they have been married 70 years.

Betty worked for many years at the Director of the Gallatin County Housing Authority. She was known for her Gourmet cooking, had a kindness for others that was always true, she was very innovative, but mostly loved her family.  She enjoyed being with children, grandchildren and friends.  Betty always had a smile and kind word for you.  She will be missed.

Betty is survived by her loving husband, Bob of Shawneetown, sons, Bobby (Katie) Downen, John David (Lori) Downen, Steve (Kristy Bosaw) Downen and Matt (Julie) Downen. Grandchildren, Courtney Downen, Jordan Ahrens, Hank, Kassidy, Lucas and Wyatt Downen, Hayley, Rogers, Cale Downen and Maggie Downen,  Great Grandchildren,  Henry , Megan, Gracie, Jake, Ava, Kaden, Drew, Liam, Walker, Barrett and Graham and 1 great great grandchild, Joseph  She was also preceded in death by her grandson Chris Downen, a brother, Tommy Jo Deitz and a sister Linda Westbrook.  Betty was also survived by her caretaker for over 20 years Ruth Bell.

Visitation will be on Friday, August 16, 2019 at the Cox & Son Funeral Home in Ridgway from 10:00AM to 12:00 Noon.  Her funeral will immediately follow at 12 noon with Rev. Roger Lyons and Rev. Wade Halva officiating.  She will be laid to rest in the Westwood cemetery near Shawneetown.  Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to the Shawneetown Library or Hospice of Southern Illinois.  Envelopes will be available.

You may choose memorial gifts or leave a note of comfort to the family at www.coxandson.com