Edith May Downs

Edith M. Downs, 85, longtime resident of High Pine in Wells, died Monday, July 12, 2004 at the Kennebunk Nursing Home.She was born December 26, 1918, one of eight children to Allen and Edith (Conners) Hilton and attended local schools. With much perseverance, Edith was the only child to graduate from Wells High School. Edith married Everett Downs November 30, 1941 in York and shared over 44 years of marriage before his death in 1986.Mrs. Downs was a housekeeper for many of the hotels and motels in and around Wells beach. She also worked as a nanny. Her true love was caring for her husband and family. She was known as the "Neighborhood Mom" - their home was a refuge for many in the neighborhood. She enjoyed blueberry picking and making fine pies and muffins. She tended her gardens and canned many of the vegetables for future meals. She was very attached to her dog, Babe and greatly saddened by his death. She will be remembered for her gentle touch and giving generously with her time and talents.Survivors include three sons: Allen and wife Linda Downs of Wells; Arthur and wife, Althea Downs of Myrtle Beach, So. Carolina; and Russell Downs of Wells. One brother: Fred and wife, Lois Hilton of Sanford. Also, 8 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Many nieces, nephews and cousins.One son predeceased her: Albert Downs in 1970 and a granddaughter, Sherrie Pierce in 1997. Also, a daughter-in-law, Cindy Downs in July 1991 and six siblings: Mercy Gray, Francis Hilton, Erastus (Tiny) Hilton, Warren Hilton, Russell Hilton and Arthur Hilton. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, July 14, 2004 from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 pm at Heald Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. A funeral will be held Thursday at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Chadbourne Cemetery in Lyman.Memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, P.O. 426, Westbrook, ME 04098.