Leanne Downey

Leanne Marie Downey, 53, of Vadnais Heights, was born August 5, 1972, in Saint Paul and passed away peacefully at Regions Hospital in Saint Paul on March 6, 2026, surrounded by loving family and close friends after complications following a stroke.

Leanne was born to Duane Downey and Joan McSherry. She grew up in Mahtomedi and graduated from Mahtomedi High School in 1990. She later attended Saint Paul Technical College, where she studied childhood development before beginning a career in the trucking and transportation field. She started at FedEx Ground and later continued working with contractors in the industry.

Leanne enjoyed the simple things in life—summer days at the lake soaking up the sun, evenings around bonfires, nights out listening to live bands, and playing bingo. She especially loved live music and listening to some of her favorite bands, including Zac Brown Band and GB Leighton. She also had a deep love for animals and treated every pet she had like family. Dragonflies held a special place in her heart and were something she always loved.

To her friends and family, Leanne was fiercely loyal and endlessly generous. She would give you the shirt off her back without hesitation. She had a gift for making others feel seen and valued. Leanne spoke her mind freely and kept people on their toes with her stubborn streak, but those who knew her best understood how deeply she cared. Her laugh could fill a room, and she always made sure the people around her were taken care of long before she thought about herself.

She is survived by her son, Josh Buck; her father, Duane Downey and step-mother Sue Downey; her mother, Joan McSherry; and her sister, Jen Sauro (Tim). She also leaves behind close cousins and many close friends who were an important part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, John and Helen Downey, and Clarence and Eleanor McSherry.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nursing staff at Regions Hospital Burn Unit for the compassion, dignity, and care they showed Leanne during her final days. Your kindness and support meant more to our family than words can express.

We would also like to thank the staff at Suite Living in Little Canada for the care and attention they gave Leanne. A special thank you to activity director Lisa, whose energy and dedication brought joy to the residents. Leanne truly enjoyed her time with Lisa and always appreciated the positivity and effort she put into making activities fun and engaging.

A celebration of life will be held on April 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the American Legion in North Saint Paul, 2678 7th Avenue East. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate Leanne's life. Food and refreshments will be provided. Guests are welcome to wear purple or dragonflies in her memory if they wish.

A private burial will be held for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Leanne's name to the American Stroke Association.