Nancy Jean Downey
1938 – 2026

With deep sadness we announce the passing of our dear mother and grandmother, Nancy Jean Downey. She went home to be with her Lord and Saviour on May 19, 2026, at the age of 87.

Nancy was born at Grace Hospital in Calgary, on Aug. 29, 1938, to Thelma and John Mundell. She had a wonderful childhood on the family farm at Okotoks, near the Sheep River, with her eight siblings. Mom rode her horse May to the Big Rock School, along with her sisters Myrna and Patricia, and it was a happy memory she cherished.

Nancy met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Downey, at an old-time dance in Millarville. They were married in Okotoks on Valentines Day 1959.

They began their married life in Black Diamond, and they moved their growing family to the Downey farm, north of Turner Valley. They welcomed six children during these years: Robert, Julie, Karen, Shawna, Chad and Paula.

In 1973, Nancy and Bob bought a farm north of Leslieville, and welcomed their last child, Shane, in 1974.
Mom took piano and accordion lessons as a young girl and carried her love of music through her life. She played at various functions and seniors’ homes and taught piano lessons to local kids in the community. She collected miniature pianos and the magazine, Our Canada, featured her collection in their 2009 publication.

Home was Mom’s favourite place to be, and she enjoyed taking care of her family. Mom’s fresh-baked bread, fried chicken, and Sunday pies were some of our favourites.

Mom enjoyed playing hymns, reading her Bible, and growing in her Christian faith. Mom exemplified the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31. She was a kind woman of faith, her value far above rubies.

Nancy is survived by her children: Robert Downey, Julie (Darryl) Casey, Karen (Curt) Larsen, Shawna Mason, Chad (Tammy) Downey, Paula (Darcy) Cech, and Shane (Trena) Downey; grandchildren: Amber Noel, Chris Casey, Cheryl DeBruyn, Riley Mason Larsen, Natalie Larsen, Lane Larsen, Chelsea McDonald, Justin Mason, Brandon Mason, Owen Downey, Emma Downey, Alli Downey, Renee Zinger, Colton Valliers, Travis Cech, Callie Davis, Claire Cech, Elizabeth Downey and Lauren Downey. In addition, Nancy has twenty-four great-grandchildren. Nancy is also survived by her siblings: Roy (Shirley) Mundell, Warren (Guidong) Mundell, Cole Mundell and Adele Mundell.

Nancy was predeceased in death by her parents, Thelma and John Mundell, her husband Robert Downey; sisters Myrna Fisher and Patricia Allan; brothers Frank Mundell and Ray Mundell.

Nancy’s life and legacy will be celebrated, Sunday, May 31, at 4 p.m. at Bethel Union Church in Leslieville. Interment to follow at Leslieville Cemetery, and luncheon at 6 p.m. at Condor Hall.

Donations may be made to Bethel Union Church in Leslieville.

Condolences may be forwarded to www.rockyfuneralhome.ca.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.