Joann Rowland

Rowland, Joann (Downs) ALBANY Joann Downs Rowland, 84, was called to Eternal Life Thursday, February 9, 2012. She was born in Sayre, Pa., in 1927, the daughter of the late Agnes Lucy and Richard Joseph Downs. She was the sister of Joseph and the Right Rev. Richard J. Downs, the director of Catholic Charities in Albany, both of whom preceded her in death. She was the mother of Sheela A. Rowland and Maureen H. Rowland and the grandmother of Erin and Kathleen Barber. She was the beloved friend of Mrs. John (Elva) Dootz. Joann worked for the Internal Revenue Center and retired from the County of Albany after more than 27 years of service. She graduated from Blessed Sacrament Grammar School and the Academy of the Holy Names. She attended Russell Sage College. Joann was a communicant for many years at her brother's parish, the former Holy Cross Church in Albany. She was presently supporting the Parish of Mater Christi. Funeral services Monday, February 13, 2012 at 11 a.m., at the Parish of Mater Christi, Albany where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends are invited and may also call Monday morning after 10 a.m., at the church. Interment, St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Catholic Charities, 40 North Main Ave., Albany, NY 12203. To leave the family a special message on their guest book, obtain a prayer card or directions, or share a photo with them, visit McveighFuneralHome.com