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.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb with Pastor Jim Clayton officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at the funeral home.
Memorials can be made, in Charlene’s honor, to the McDonough District Hospital Hospice program, Wesley Village, or St. Jude.
You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.
