Patsy "Patti" Jean Downes

Patsy Jean Downes

May 9, 1952 – September 23, 2025

Patsy Jean “Patti” Downes, age 73, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. Born on May 9, 1952, in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, to Eugene Brazier and Christine Taylor (Fitzgerald), Patti moved to Toledo as a child and graduated from Woodward High School.

Patti lived a life rich in family, laughter, and love. Her favorite tradition was her annual July pilgrimage back to Lawrenceburg to reconnect with her roots and cherished relatives. A true music lover, she had a deep passion for Motown, Soul, and R&B—genres she lovingly passed down to her son.

On March 22, 1989, Patti married Charles “Chuck” Downes, a union he lovingly credits with saving his life. Together, they built a family filled with love and resilience.

Known for her lead foot, Patti found joy at drag races and circle track events across Toledo and Michigan. She was a phenomenal cook and baker, though she famously kept the recipe for her husband’s favorite Chess Pie a secret.

Those who knew Patti knew her to be the boss and admired her unmatched toughness, sharp wit, and sweet tooth—especially for Pepsi, Reese’s, sweet tea, and chocolate. She had a special bond with dogs, and she deeply missed her favorites Nomad and Smokey.

Patti is survived by her devoted husband Chuck; her children Sharon “Libby” Downes, Robert Michael Smith, Carl Douglas Sinclair, and Mark Anthony Sinclair; her sister Kay; brother Robbie; and special nephew Sammy Jones. She also leaves behind a plethora of treasured grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her aunt Donna MacAfee, and her sister Sandy.

Memorial donations may be made to her family, care of Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 3500 Navarre Avenue, Oregon, OH 43616. Online condolences may be left at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory.