Wendy Marie Downey

Wendy Marie Downey, 66, of Rensselaer, passed away at home on Friday, January 9th, 2026, due to a myocardial infarction. Wendy was born on September 9th, 1959 in Albany, NY to Robert E. and Patricia A. (Gaul) Zibell. Wendy is survived by her loving son, Joseph M. Downey; daughter-in-law, Vanessa; their beautiful daughter, Indigo, whom Wendy cherished, of Valatie, NY; her former husband and friend, Joseph C. Downey of Schodack Landin, NY; her loving sister, Laurie A. Coleman of Owings, MD; sister-in-law, Gail Zibell of Owasso, OK; uncle, Ken (Karen) Gaul of Stillwater, NY; aunt, Jean (Zibell) Franz of Schenectady, NY; aunt, Theresa (Zibell) Igoe of Rotterdam, NY; nephews, Christopher and Michael Zibell, and Stephen, Jason, and David Coleman; nieces, Kelly Zibell and Amanda Coleman; 8 great nieces and nephews; and numerous cousins, spending much time with loving cousin/friend, James Gaul. Wendy is predeceased by her father, Robert; her mother, Patricia; and her brothers, Robert E. Zibell, Jr. and Brian K. Zibell. Wendy enjoyed surrounding herself with family and friends. Wendy will be remembered for her kindness and beautiful smile. Wendy was an avid reader, she had a love for music, especially the guitar, and animals. A private celebration of life will be held by her family in Lake George, NY, which she loved. Contributions in Wendy's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands, NY. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wendy Marie Downey, please visit our floral store.