CHARLES CITY, IOWA — Mary Downing, 77, of Charles City, died peacefully Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Floyd County Medical Center while surrounded by her loving family.
A visitation was held Thursday, July 23, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City. A Mass of Christian Burial followed at the church, with the Rev. Ray Atwood officiating. Inurnment took place at Sunnyside Memory Gardens in rural Charles City.
Mary was born July 6, 1949, in New Hampton, Iowa, the daughter of Russell and Marie (Brown) McAloon. She married William “Bill” Downing on June 22, 1968, beginning a marriage that spanned 58 years.
According to her obituary, Mary devoted her life to caring for her home and family. As a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she created a welcoming household where family traditions were treasured and time together mattered.
Mary was a talented seamstress who used her skills to sew, mend and create items for relatives and friends. Her handiwork reflected the patience and care she brought to the people around her.
She was also remembered as an excellent cook. During the holidays, her children would join her in the kitchen to prepare candies, cookies and family recipes for their gatherings. Those moments became cherished traditions carried forward by the family.
Mary found happiness in simple pleasures, including flowers and watching birds outside her window. She enjoyed the companionship of her faithful dog, Murphy, and followed volleyball, including the Indiana Fever.
One of her favorite adventures was a trip to Alaska, where she enjoyed the state’s scenery and wildlife. She returned home with a recipe for a drink that soon became a favorite at family gatherings.
Her Catholic faith remained important throughout her life, and she was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Mary is survived by her husband, William “Bill” Downing of Charles City; four daughters, Amy (Rodney) Hillegas, Melissa (Trent) Bollman and Lisa (Andy) Hintgen, all of Charles City, and Amanda (Daniel) Ruden of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren Jordan Baxter, Hali (Lowen) Reams, Luke (Jozi) Hillegas, Abby Hillegas, Dominic Hintgen, Ragan Hintgen, Keegan Bollman and Evan Bollman; numerous great-grandchildren; her sister, Jane Ferch of Charles City; and many nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Joyce London and Janet Pierce; brothers Alan McAloon and infant Michael McAloon; parents-in-law James “Jim” and Carol Downing; and her beloved grandson, Gavin Bollman.
Even after her death, Mary continued helping others as a tissue donor through the Iowa Donor Network, providing a final gift of healing and hope.
Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home handled arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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