Sandy Downing

Sandy, 77, died peacefully Monday, April 15th from her short fight with renal cancer after a happy and inspirational life. She was born on July 28, 1941 in Roosevelt County, NM, the second child of Gerald and Miriam Mitchell. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her sister, Geraldine Dunsworth of Portales, NM.

Surviving are her husband of 51 years, Marvin Downing, her two children and spouses, Lee Downing (Karen) and Cecile Buchanan (Kevin). Also surviving are her four grandchildren; Stephen & Bryan Downing and Mary Beth & Abbey Buchanan. Other relatives including her siblings; Travis & Faye Mitchell, Frank & Vickie Mitchell, Steve & Karen Mitchell and Kenneth Dunsworth.

Sandy graduated from Oklahoma University with a Masters Degree in Library Science and worked for 28 years at the University of TN at Martin in the library. Sandy volunteered enthusiastically for many years at First Baptist Church Martin in the nursery as well as many other areas of ministry. Sandy spent her later years volunteering at We Care Ministries in Martin.

Her life was devoted to her husband and family. She treasured their Sundays at church, holiday celebrations and family vacations visiting family in Texas and New Mexico. She never missed an event where her children and grandchildren were participating. Sandy had a special love for her friends and was always smiling and laughing. She will be remembered for always thinking of others before herself and for her beautiful spirit of caring. She was an inspiration to anyone that knew her and a wonderful example of giving unto others.

Thank you to the many caregivers for their support during her short battle with cancer. She was touched by your caring and love for her.

Her family will receive friends on Friday, April 19th from 1pm to 3pm at First Baptist Church in Martin and the memorial service will follow at 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the First Baptist Church Martin building fund at http://www.fbcmartin.org/give/his-kingdom-first or WE CARE Ministries; P.O. Box 292; Martin, TN  38237.

Other memorial items or flowers contact Murphy Funeral Home 207 Central Avenue Martin, TN 38237