Patricia L. Downs

Patricia L. Downs passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on October 17, 2025. 

Beloved daughter of the late Francis Aloysius Xavier and Margaret Mary (nee Dooley) Crowley, Pat was the cherished sister of Marie Farnesi (Frank) and the late Julia McLaughlin (James) and Margaret Herr (Richard). 

She is survived by her devoted children Donna Lynn Carden (Robert), George J. Downs III (Daneen), Robert F. Downs (Jennifer), and Monica M. Gallo (Christopher); her adoring grandchildren Robert, George, Matthew, Kelly, Kevin, Julia, Joseph, Caroline, Addison, Cooper, Christopher, and Catherine; and her great-grandchild, Lucas. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, George J. “Buddy” Downs, Jr., the love of her life. 

Born on June 24, 1942, in Southwest Philadelphia, Pat grew up in the close-knit community of Most Blessed Sacrament Parish. Alongside her three sisters on Warrington Avenue, she learned early the value of family, faith, and laughter — lessons passed down from her Irish immigrant grandparents and the many aunts, uncles, and cousins who filled her world with love. 

Pat attended MBS Grade School and West Catholic Girls High School, where, by all accounts, she never broke a rule (at least not one anyone could prove). 

It was during a high school mixer that she met her “Buddy.” At first, she thought he talked too much — but he quickly won her over. From that day forward, Pat and Buddy were inseparable. They attended every prom together and spent countless Sunday mornings at her family’s home, where Pat’s mother made big Irish breakfasts for the crowd of kids and their sweethearts. 

After high school, Buddy joined the service and was deployed to Germany. Even with an ocean between them, their devotion never wavered. In a gesture as romantic as it was bold, Buddy sent an engagement ring home to Pat through a friend, and when he returned, he proposed again in person. 

Pat and Buddy married and settled in Folcroft, where they raised their family and built a beautiful life together. A devoted wife and mother, Pat poured her heart into her home and children. She was a longtime member of St. George Parish, where she found lifelong friends — her beloved “sorority girls.” Whether it was a prayer meeting, rosary, or school event, Pat was always involved. Summers were spent at the Glenolden pool with “the circle,” playing cards and chatting for hours, while Friday nights meant Highballs, laughter, and friendship that lasted a lifetime. 

Once her children were grown, Pat discovered a new calling: caring for others. She joined Taylor Hospice, where she worked for 22 years, bringing compassion, strength, and comfort to patients and families during life’s most tender moments. Her kindness and faith touched countless lives, and her coworkers became a second family. 

After retiring, Pat volunteered at St. Anastasia School, where she found great joy helping in the classroom and spending time with the children. 

Pat had many titles throughout her life — Patricia, Pat, Patsy, Honey Pat, Mom, and Aunt — but none meant more to her than “Grandmom” and “Grammy.” Her grandchildren were her world. She never missed a birthday, game, recital, concert, meet, or show, and even traveled across the world to be part of their special moments. She loved to spoil them — often with her trademark smile and a quick handoff of her credit card. 

Pat also had a flair for shopping, especially at Strawbridge’s, where Clover Days were practically holidays in her calendar. Christmas mornings were magical, with the familiar sight of yellow boxes under the tree — tokens of her love and joy in giving. 

Above all else, Pat cherished time with her family and friends. Her warmth, humor, and boundless love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Patricia’s viewing on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at St. Anastasia Church, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by her Funeral Mass at 11:30 AM. Interment private. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Patricia’s memory to the St. Anastasia Endowment Fund, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073.