Juanita Downey

Juanita Park Wright Downey, 92, of Fulton, passed away Tuesday, August 9, 2011, at St. Mary's Health Center in Jefferson City. She was born May 18, 1919, in Buffalo, West Virginia, the daughter of Marie Park Wright and Harold Wright Sr. She married Frank Downey in Champagne-Urbana on December 2, 1942. He preceded her in death. Juanita received a degree in Journalism from Marshall College in Huntington, West Virginia. She was Miss West Virginia 1940, and was runner-up in the Miss America Pageant. Mrs. Downey moved to Fulton eight years ago. She enjoyed politics, current events, reading the newspapers, M&Ms and the Ohio River. Her greatest joy came from her family, which she loved dearly. Juanita leaves behind to treasure her memory, three daughters, Jan Conn and husband Gale of Fulton, Claire Downey of Culpepper, Virginia, and Joan Downey Strickler and husband John of Edina, Minnesota; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; her beloved son, Brian F. Downey; and beloved brother, Harold. Juanita's wishes were to be cremated. Her remains will be laid to rest next to her husband at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Condolences can be sent by visiting www.debofuneralhome.com.