Mary Jane (Allen) Downs

YORK- Mary Jane (Allen) Downs, 90, passed away on Thursday, January 19, 2023 at her residence. She was the wife of Charles F. Downs whom she married October 4, 1952 in Hazleton PA. The couple had been married for 70 years

Born on September 5, 1932 in Hazleton, she was a daughter of the late Gilbert W. and Mina D. (Daily) Allen. Mary Jane graduated from Hazleton Township High School. She attended Penn State University and graduated from Millersville University with BA and MEQ degrees. She and her husband moved to York PA in 1957. She was employed by Caterpillar Tractor as receptionist for seven years. She then started teaching in The Dover School District as a fourth-grade teacher. She remained there for 26 years till her retirement.

Mary Jane was a deacon in the First Presbyterian Church, past president and member of Delta Kappa Gama, a member of the National Teachers Association and a member of American Association of University Women. She was also a member and supporter of the York Symphony Auxiliary and The York Habitat for Humanity.

She and her husband were members of The First Presbyterian Church of York since 1957. Her hobbies were travel, both in the USA and abroad to meet new people and learn new cultures. Her interests were playing the piano, reading and flying with her husband in their airplane.

Along with her husband, Charles, Mary is survived by her daughter, Jennifer J. Spahr and her husband, David; two grandchildren, Ryan Spahr and his wife, Annie Spahr and Erin Snyder and her husband, Ken; and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Charles F. Downs, Jr.; and her brother-in-law, George R. Downs.

After cremation, interment will be held at The First Presbyterian Church in the church yard. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd., York is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of York, 222 E. Market Street York PA 17402.

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