Dee Dee Downum

Dee Dee Downum of Royse City, Texas went to be with the Lord at the age of 77 on Sunday, March 16, 2025 in Rowlett, TX.
Dee Dee was born as Iladee Hazelip on January 25, 1948 in Dallas and lived in various areas of Texas with her parents during her childhood years. She was known by her family and friends as Dee Dee. She graduated with honors from W.W. Samuell High School in 1966. She and Leonard were married on April 14, 1967 and were happily married for 55 years until his death on April 6, 2023. She enjoyed teaching elementary school grade Sunday school classes and being involved with the youth group at Calvary Baptist Church in Mesquite. She had a strong spiritual faith up until she drew her last breath. She collected white ducks and the Precious Moments figurines that included the little white goose. Because of her love of ducks, she was nicknamed "Mama Duck" by her children. Even though she didn't work outside the home, she worked very hard to make sure what Leonard brought home was used efficiently and their children didn't go without. Dee Dee will be remembered as a loving Christian who will be dearly missed by all.
She is preceded in death by her parents Wilburn Paul Hazelip and Ilarae Ethna Hazelip, husband Leonard Allen Downum, and sister Thomasene Ilarae Green.
Dee Dee is survived by her son Michael Allen Downum and wife, Dana; daughter Deanna Lynn Cook and husband Jerrold; sister Betty Jean Dubose; grandchildren Emily Sue Downum, Justin Bellah, and Morgan Bellah; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.