Frances Ann Downing

Frances Ann (Perna) Downing of Malden, known as Fran to those who knew her, passed away after a difficult battle with brain disease. Fran was born on April 2, 1948, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who left an indelible mark on those who knew her.
Fran was a lifelong resident of Malden, where she graduated from Malden High School with the class of 1966 and married fellow classmate, Frank Downing, in 1975. Together, they created a beautiful family and shared countless cherished moments.
Fran is preceded in death by her daughter, Jennifer (Downing) Colarusso of Methuen and her granddaughter, Clara Downing-Clements, of Malden.
Fran is survived by her husband, Frank Downing of Malden; her daughter Christen Downing and her husband Sergio Pavuna of Malden; her son-in-law, Phil Colarusso of Methuen; her nephew, Bernie Valerio of Revere; and her daughter Laura (Downing) Blais and her husband Daniel Blais of Pepperell.
Fran also leaves behind her grandchildren: Elizabeth Downing-Pavuna of Malden; Noah and Sarabeth Colarusso of Methuen; and Emelia and Cora Blais of Pepperell.
Additionally she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, siblings, extended family and friends.
She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Bella.
Memorial arrangements are private at the request of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation: give.bcrf.org or Cure Epilepsy: give.cureepilepsy.org