Obituary of Helen L. Downey

STAR LAKE- Helen L. Downey, age 90 of Star Lake, NY passed away on December 23, 2023 at Clifton-Fine Hospital in Star Lake. There will be a gathering time for Helen on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. followed by her memorial service at 11:30 a.m. at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Helen was born on September 24, 1933 in Canton, NY to the late Andrew and Flora (Taylor) Caswell, the second of thirteen children. She graduated from Canton High School in 1950 as class salutatorian. After high school, Helen went to Royal Victorian Hospital in Montreal, where she studied nursing. Helen married J. Rodney Downey on September 20, 1955. Rodney passed away on December 10, 1983. Helen had a longtime companion, Donald Jennings, who passed away in March of 2022. She worked as a registered nurse for E.J. Noble, Gouverneur before moving to Star Lake where she was employed by Clifton-Fine Hospital. She was also an office nurse for Dr. Persson, Dr. Jalalzai and the Clifton-Fine Boarding Home. She was a member of the Star Lake Fireman's Auxiliary. She was a Den Mother for many years in Pack 35. Beginning in 1986 she wintered with her companion in Cresent City, Florida. Helen enjoyed knitting, crossword puzzles, jig-saw puzzles, reading, and gardening. She enjoyed being with her family, her wit and spunk will be missed by all that knew her. Surviving are her three sons, Charles Downey, David and Judy Downey and Gregory and Cindy Downey; seven grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren; three brothers, Carl Caswell, George Caswell, and Keith Caswell; four sisters, Arlene Perrigo, Iona Brewer, Leta Perkins and Arvilla Aldus; and several nieces and nephews. Helen is predeceased by her parents; her husband; two brothers, Alson Caswell and Orrin Caswell; and three sisters, Alberta Burke, Dorothy Morrison and Alma Miller. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen's memory to the Star Lake Fire Department.