95, of Macomb
Portia Charlene (Hodges) Downey, 95, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Born to Charles and Portia (Campbell) Hodges on 10/21/1929, Charlene was 1 of 9 children and the last surviving member of her immediate family. In 1947, she married William A. Downey, with whom she shared a devoted marriage until his passing on 2/5/2005.
Charlene was preceded in death by her husband, William A. Downey; daughters, Dianna C. Beck and Deborah J. Sallee; son-in-law, Roger V. Sallee, and two great grandchildren. Charlene leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: Gary Beck; Randy and Pam (Gilkerson) Downey; Denise and Tom Vogel; Aaron and Mary (Bland) Downey; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great grandchildren. She will also be deeply missed by her lifelong friends Dwight and Kay Morrow.
At the age of 50, Charlene earned her beautician’s license, which is a testament to her determination and love of learning. However, she considered her family as being her greatest and most meaningful job.
