Mary Elizabeth Downs, 66, of Saint Francis, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Born on June 30, 1958, in Decorah, Iowa, Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Gary and Lois Hunter Finholt. Raised in the Lutheran faith, she carried her values of kindness and service throughout her life.

Mary was known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her community. She spent several years working at Loretto Foodland, where her warm smile and helpful nature made her a favorite among customers and colleagues. Later, she found fulfillment as a school bus driver for Nelson County Schools, safely guiding countless children to and from school with care and reliability.

Family was at the heart of Mary's life. She is survived by her three children, James Truman "Jay" Downs (Jamie), Margie Ann Thompson (Jimmy), and Joshua Michael Downs, all of Saint Francis. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Kaitlyn Downs, Bricen Downs, Zachary Moss, Vivian Thompson, Landen Thompson, and Michael Thompson. Mary also leaves behind her sister, Wanda Corkery (Gerald) of Marion, Iowa, and four brothers: James Finholt (Christi) of San Antonio, Texas; Craig Finholt (Kathy) of Independence, Iowa; Steve Finholt (Brenda) of Decorah, Iowa; and Brian Finholt of Jesup, Iowa.

Mary will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering devotion to her family, and the quiet strength she brought to every aspect of her life. Her legacy lives on in the love she shared and the lives she touched.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Mattingly Funeral Home, 195 Holy Cross Road, Loretto. A prayer service, led by Rev. Deacon Joseph R. Dant, will take place at 7 p.m. Cremation will follow.

Mary's family and friends will forever cherish her memory and the example she set of compassion and dedication