Madeline A. (Perry) Downing, 81, of Fairhaven passed away Tuesday June 28, 2022 peacefully at home surrounded by her family. She was the wife of Morton R. Downing.
Born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late Raymond Perry and Clotilde (Mendez) Reis, she grew up in the South End. She and her husband, Morton, built their family home in Fairhaven where she lived for most of her life. She was happiest in her home, where she hosted countless family holidays, gatherings for her wide circle of friends, and so many pool parties. Her door was always open and there was always room for one more at her dinner table.
She was an avid reader, had a green thumb, and loved youth sports. She could be found in the stands of many a high school sport, cheering on her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many of her friends’ children as well.
Madeline was always there to lend a listening ear and offer helpful advice to whoever needed it. She laughed easily and loved deeply. In her better days, she was the first on the dance floor and the last to leave. She lived life to the fullest and would want us all to do the same.
Madeline is survived by her husband, Mort; her children, Neil Downing and his wife Jennifer and Nicole Merusi and her husband Marc; four grandchildren, Sydney and Lila Merusi, and Calvin and Reese Downing; two nieces, Stephani Handel and Stacey Perry; a nephew, Wade Perry; and her close cousin Joyce Nunes and her son Bradley Taber.
She was recently predeceased by her siblings. Elinor and Raymond Perry.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday July 14th from 12-3 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by a short service of remembrance at 3 PM. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.