We are saddened to learn of the passing of Anne Marie (Barnes) Downs, Class of 1964 on August 28, 2025.
During this very challenging time, our hearts go out to Anne’s family, friends, colleagues and students.
Thank you to Paula (McCombs) Loughlin for alerting us to Anne’s passing. An obituary was published on her findagrave page, which is copied here for your convenience;
OBITUARY
Anne Marie Downs
May 27, 1946 – August 28, 2025
IN THE CARE OF
Wanamaker & Carlough Funeral Home
Anne Marie Downs, a devoted wife, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and learning.
A longtime resident of Suffern, New York, Anne Marie shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, James William “Bill” Downs. Together they traveled the world, embraced adventure, and gave generously of their time through community service.
For decades, Anne Marie inspired countless young minds as a teacher at Viola Elementary School in Montebello. Her dedication extended far beyond the classroom, where she formed cherished, lifelong friendships with colleagues, the Killelea family, and her treasured circle known as “The Magnolias.”
Anne Marie will be remembered for her lively sense of humor, her adventurous spirit, and her enormous heart that touched everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her siblings: Timothy Barnes of New York; Kenneth Barnes of Rockport, Massachusetts; Constance Berger of Peachtree City, Georgia; Bette Jane Merrill of Highland, New York; and her sister-in-law, Carol Barnes of North Palm Beach, Florida.
She was predeceased by her husband, Bill; her brothers, Frank Barnes; and her brother-in-law, Quinn Berger.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 1:30PM, at Wanamaker and Carlough Funeral Home, in Suffern.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Meals on Wheels of Rockland. mowrockland.org
Anne Marie’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A memorial page has been created in Anne’s honor. The Sayville Alumni Association will remember her annually on her birthday, May 27th. We hope this remembrance will provide solace for those who knew and loved Anne.
Anne Marie (Barnes) Downs Class of 1942
A special remembrance by Paula (McCombs) Loughlin, Class of 1965;
“Anne was my first friend that I could hang out with, back in about 3rd grade. On days we were off from school we would ride our bikes all over Sayville looking for empty soda bottles to turn in for 2 cents or 5 cents. Then we’d ride to “Harry’s” on the north side of Railroad Ave to buy Penny Candy.
One time I had accumulated 20 cents. The malted milk balls were 2 for a penny. I bought 40 of them. And I ate every one! Sick enough that I never ate them again!
We also loved going to Little league games near her home on Gillette Ave. While we went our separate ways as we grew up, I always considered Anne a friend and was so happy to have found her on Facebook a few years ago!”
