Susie Mae Downs

Susie Downs passed away on February 24, 2023, she was 87. She was born in Benton, Illinois on October 12, 1935, and was a resident of Beaumont, Texas for the last 10 years.

A visitation will be held from 5:30-7:00 pm on Monday, February 27, 2023, with family reflections taking place at 7:00 pm, at Claybar Kelly-Watkins Funeral Home in Beaumont, Tx.

Susie retired from Goreville First Baptist Church at age 75. She loved her job as the church secretary. Her favorite roles were assisting the members of the church and community, making the weekly bulletin, working with the Acteens, and typing for Bro. Ron. She talked very highly of Brother Ron and Linda and how much she loved them dearly.

Susie loved to cook and have company over to the house. She and Bill lived on Lake Egypt for over 20 years, him retired and her working at the church. They fed the fish from their pier so that when the grandkids came to visit they could catch many fish off the pier. Susie loved to play card games. She was very competitive and loved to win, after winning she would "hoot" with her arms like a chicken celebrating her victory.
Many memories can be recited about Susie Downs, her quick wit, laughter, and sharp mind, but if you knew her, you would see the love of Jesus in her heart. She was a faithful servant of our Lord and was quick to share her love for him. It is hard to imagine a life on Earth without her smile.

Survivors include her daughter, Diana Valdez and husband Johnny. Her daughter in-laws Patty Ernst, and Jody Irwin. Grandchildren, Kristian Shoffner and Luke, Andrew Pridemore and Caitlin, Harry Jr. and Natalee, Jennifer Meads and Kyle, Austin Pridemore, Danny Irwin and Kari, Jessica Valdez, and Vanessa Wilson and Chris, along with 12 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Edith Austin, the love of her life William Downs, and her 3 boys, Johnny, Ronnie, and Harry.

She will be greatly missed by her family.