Photo courtesy of Duggan Dolan Mortuary - Butte
Jul 1, 1949 - Aug 23, 2025
We had so much fun in high school and as young teachers I'll always remember her wonderful giggles
Carmen Bartholomew
September 08, 2025 | BUTTE, MT | Classmate
To all of the Downey family, I’m so sorry for your loss. I met Deanie several years ago at a teacher‘s luncheon at the country club. She was so sweet and it was so nice to run into one of the Downey family. They were such a great family. Mary and Loretta were in high school with me and I have wonderful memories of them both. My sincere condolences to all of you for the loss of this lovely woman.
Sincerely, Maureen Harrington Britton
maureen britton
September 08, 2025 | Butte, MT | Friend
Rosie and Theresa and family. I am so sorry to hear of Deanies passing. Sending heartfelt sympathy to you all. ❤
PATTY SHEA
September 05, 2025 | BOZEMAN, MT | Friend
I have known deannie for many years. She had a great sense of humor and really loved her family and I wish to send my condolences to them. We attended girls central high school together. I played a number of sports with her in grade school and high school and laughter was constant. I am sure she will be missed. Micki Palmer
Micki Thornton Palmer
September 04, 2025 | Butte, MT | Classmate
I have known deanie for many years. I remember her humor and love of family. I was a year behind her in high school and played many sports with her in grade school and high school. I am sure her family will miss her and I send my condolences to them. Micki Palmer
Micki Thornton palmer
September 04, 2025 | Butte, MT | Friend
Such a Beautiful Soul!
Jack McCormick
September 04, 2025 | Butte, MT | Friend
Deanie was the bravest person I have ever known. She was my sister and I loved her beyond words. She had a gracious heat and she was gifted with a phonographic memory. She was FUNshe loved to sing and dance. Deanie had wisdom and I always sought her guidance. Heaven gained a spirited angel. I love you Deanie
rosie hammond
September 03, 2025 | Missoula, MT | Sister
Deanie was the sweetest, and the children sure loved her when I worked at Emerson. I learned a lot from her when I first started teaching. RIP Deanie
Rochelle Ryan
September 03, 2025 | Butte, MT | Coworker
Grew up as a neighbor and friend of the Downey family, all great people. Sorry to hear about Deanie’s passing
Frank Mcauliffe
September 03, 2025 | Micco, FL | Neighbor
Geraldine F. Downey, born July 1, 1949, to Patrick and Alice Downey, passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 76. A lifelong resident of Bute, Geraldine devoted her career to educating young minds, serving as a beloved grade school teacher in the Bute school district for 38 years.
Geraldine was the eighth of twelve children in the Downey family. She was predeceased by her brothers Pat, Tom and Jerry Downey, sisters Loreta McCarthy and Alice McDonough and brother in law Robert “Bob” McCarthy. Geraldine is survived by her sisters Mary (Dan) Ferriter,Rosie (Dave) Hammond and Theresa (George) Gee; and by her brothers Tim (Paula) Downey, Mark (Linda) Downey and Mike (Barb) Downey. Geraldine is also survived by sisters in law Mary Kay Downey, Kathy Downey and Cathy Downey, brother in law Robert “Bob” McDonough alongwith numerous nieces and nephews who remember her for her quiet strength, quick wit, and generous spirit.
Known affectionately as “Deanie” , Geraldine never married and had no children, but her impact on generations of students was profound. Her colleagues and pupils alike remember her kindness, dedication, and steadfast commitment to learning.
Geraldine’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to Karen Kraft for her unwavering friendship and support to Geraldine throughout the years. Sincere thanks also go to Copper Ridge Health and Rehab and Honeybee Hospice for their excellent care and compassion.
Respecting Geraldine’s wishes, there will be no services held. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those lives she touched in the Bute community.
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