Anna C. Downing-Watson

Anna C. Downing-Watson, age 72, of McKinley, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2009, at the home of her son, surrounded by those who loved her. Visitation 6-9 PM Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at the Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, with Vigil Prayer Serves at 7:00 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mio with Father Raymond Cotter officiating. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will follow the Mass. Interment of Ashes will be in The Mentor Township Cemetery in Mio, at a later date. Anna was born on October 31, 1936 in Vincennes, Indiana to parents, Kenneth P. and DeNoma Meyer (Hand.) She grew up in Keego Harbor, Michigan with her parents and younger brother, Robert. In 1958 she married the love of her life, late husband, Billy Joe Downing and began to raise their family of four children in Auburn Heights. The family later moved to Mio 1972. Anna made her living as a homemaker and later went to school and became a librarian at the Oscoda County Library before retiring. She remarried in 1994 to Stewart Watson and moved to McKinley. Anna loved to read, cook, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Getting together with her family on holidays and special occasions was something she always looked forward to and those memories are something her family will hold close with them always. She was always happiest with a cup of tea and a good conversation with one of her beloved family or friends. All the way up until her last breath, she stayed strong and courageous, never giving up without a fight. To her family who will always love her dearly and to those who knew her, she will always be the example of strength and dignity. Surviving her are her four children; Christopher (Elizabeth) Downing, Matthew (Linda) Downing, Lisa Munson, Cynthia (Bruce) Hugo; four stepdaughters, her ten grandchildren, numerous step grandchildren, four great-grandchildren (and was expecting two more at the time of her passing,) husband; Stewart Watson, Brother; Robert (Shelia) Meyer, and nephew; Adam. Memorial donations to Hospice of the Sunrise Shore 109 North 2nd Ave Suite 201, Alpena, Michigan 49707 are appreciated. Arrangements by Lashley Funeral Home, Inc.