Frances M. Downen (Thompson)

Mrs. Frances M. Downen, 90, of Charleston, SC, wife of the late John Winferd Downen, died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Thursday, November 8, 2012. Born Thursday, September 14, 1922 in Sebree, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Dowell Thompson and the late Ada Lee Porter Thompson. Surviving are daughter, Katherine Downen (fiance James Glover) of Charleston, SC; son, Allan Downen (Maggie) of Central, SC; grandchildren, Erin Stackhouse, Mary Frances Ezzell (Ronnie), and Susan Yarbrough (David);great grandchildren, Dean Downen Ezzell and William David Yarbrough and sisters, Dorothy Russler and Jean Chandler of IN. Mrs. Downen grew up in Newburgh, IN where she became an insurance agent before moving to OH with her husband. They retired to Seabook Island in 1978 where she became the first clerk-treasurer of the town. She was an avid duplicate bridge player and animal lover. A memorial service will be held at the Bishop Gadsden Chapel on November 17, 2012 at 2:00PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pet Helpers of Charleston, 1447 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, The Salvation Army or The American Red Cross for Sandy relief. Arrangements by PALMETTO CREMATION SOCIETY, 11 Cunnington Ave., Charleston,SC 29405, (843) 722-2555 Online condolences may be made to the family at www.palmettocremationsociety.com