Eileen S. Downey

Eileen S. (Peitavino) Downey, 79, of New Bedford, died Wednesday, February 13, 2013. She was the wife of the late James J. Downey, Jr.

Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late Silvio and Mary (Mello) Peitavino, she was a lifelong resident of the area.

Mrs. Downey was a Teacher's Aide for New Bedford Preschool for many years before retiring. She took senior art therapy lessons at Brooklawn Park in New Bedford for many years, where she later became a Teacher's Assistant.

She enjoyed oil painting and loved being with her friends at art therapy. She enjoyed cooking which she was exceptional at, but more than anything she loved being with her family and grandchildren.

Eileen's family would like to acknowledge and thank her Royal Taber family for their exceptional care, love and support. They would also like to thank Fidelis Hospice for their all-encompassing care and support these last few months.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Ferreira and her husband Manuel of East Freetown; her brother, Kenneth Peitavino and his wife Lorraine of New Bedford; two granddaughters, Jillian Ferreira of Quincy and Elyse Rose and her husband LCPL Timothy Rose of California; a niece, Debra Peitavino; a nephew, Scott Peitavino and a great nephew Tanner Peitavino.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Funeral Mass Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 9 AM in St. Mary's Church, Tarkiln Hill Rd., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours, Friday 4-7 PM in the ROCK Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford.