Janet M. Downs

Janet M. Downs MechanicvilleJanet M. Downs, 78, of the Mid-Rise Apartments, died Thursday, at St. Peter's Hospital after a brief illness. Born in Troy, February 22, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Ellen Kit Gully Fisher. A 1951 graduate of Mechanicville High School, Janet was a secretary for G.E. in Schenectady for several years before mothering her three children. Later in life, Janet became the music director and secretary for the Mechanicville United Methodist Church, a position she held for more than 20 years. During her time at the church, she was the director of the church's youth choir, played for many of the high school baccalaureates, was a past president of the United Methodist Women, and also sang in the church choir for some time. She was also a member of the Mechanicville Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. Janet was a very accomplished musician, specializing in both the piano and organ. Her love of music and the piano started at a young age and continued right up until the day of her passing. Music was a special gift, which she loved to share with others. She was predeceased by her husband, George E. Downs, in 1996. Survivors include her three children, daughters, Kathleen M. Curtis of Mechanicville and Diana (David) E. Carman of Ashburn, VA, and her son, George (Carrie) D. Downs of Malta. Also survived by her grandchildren, Sara and Jessica Curtis, Emily Carman and Scott and Hannah Downs; and great-grandchildren, Kaelynn and Owen. A funeral service will be held Monday, October 15, at 12 p.m. at St. Luke's on the Hill, 40 McBride Rd., with burial to follow in St. Paul's Cemetery. Calling hours will be Sunday at DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, 39 So Main St., Mechanicville from 4 to 7 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mechanicville Senior Citizens Mid-Rise, C/O Ed Stillman, 180 No Main St., Mechanicville, NY 12118, in loving memory of Janet M. Downs.