Downey, Mary (Nolan) 1824 - 1907

DOWNEY, NOLAN, GIBSON, SMITH

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 8/5/2021 at 20:31:25

Elkader Register, Thur., 26 Sept. 1907.

Mrs. Thos. Downey died Sunday at 11:45 a.m., at the home of her son Joseph at Merrill, Wis. Her remains were brought to Elkader and the funeral held Tuesday morning at St. Joseph's church, Rev. Father Reilly officiating.

Mary Nolan was born in the county of Westmeath, Ireland, in June, 1824. She came to America with her mother when about 17 years of age, landing at New York. They went to Connecticut where about 1850 she was united in marriage with Thos. Downey. About 1857 they came to Clayton county and settled in Cox Creek twp. Mr. Downey died Dec. 1st, 1877. She remained on the home farm until about ten years ago when she went to reside with her children at Merrill, Wis.

Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Downey, of whom seven survive the death of their parents. They are: John and Patrick, of Elkader; Joseph, Thomas and Margaret, and Mrs. Geo. Gibson and Mrs. Fred Smith, of Merrill, Wis. All the surviving children were present at the funeral. Just a few days before her death Mrs. Downey became a great-grandmother. The family deeply feel the loss of mother, who has been their guide so many years. We sympathize with them in their bereavement.