Joan H. Downey

Joan H. Downey, age 69, of Jackson Township, passed away, surrounded by her family on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 following a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born in Lakewood, New Jersey on July 22, 1946. Her parents, Stanley and Helen Woodruff, one sister and two brothers, preceded her in death. Joan is survived by the love of her life and husband of 46 years, William F. Downey; three children and spouses: Christine Downey, Jeffrey (Jennifer) Downey, Susan (Martin) Barnes; four grandchildren; Jack and Raegan Downey, Gavin and William Barnes; one sister, four brothers, and many nieces and nephews. Joan graduated from Trenton State College with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and taught school for several years before raising her three children. Joan devoted her life to being a mother and wife and is a role model and inspiration to her family. While raising her family, she was also very involved as a volunteer for Plain Local Schools. Following her initial cancer diagnosis, Joan participated in numerous studies at the Cleveland Clinic focused on finding a cure for breast cancer. Joan and family are very appreciative of the compassionate care of Dr. Jame Abraham, Nancy Dalpiaz, and the Staff at the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center. The family is also grateful for the wonderful care provided by Aultman Hospice program. Friends will be received on Friday at the Lamiell Funeral Home in Canton from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Church of the Lakes, with Pastor Bryan George officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in memory of Joan to the following organizations: Cleveland Clinic Cancer Program, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, P.O. Box 931517, Cleveland, Ohio 44193-1655; the James A. Lehman Jr. Cranial Facial Center, Akron Children Hospital,1 Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio 44308; or the Church of the Lakes, 5944 Fulton Drive, N.W., Canton, Ohio 44718.