Francis Xavier Downing
Francis Xavier Downing, 81, formerly of Lee, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on September 10th at St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham, MA, after a long illness. Francis (Franny) was born in Boston in 1939, the son of Walter and Emily Downing and raised, together with his 5 brothers—John, Walter, Jeremiah, Peter, and Stephen—in Hingham. Francis received a BS in Pharmacy from Fordham University in 1963. That same year, Francis married Carol Jane Burns of Weymouth.
Fran began his professional career as a drug sales representative for E.R. Squibb in upstate New York. Fran and Carol later moved their family to Lee, Massachusetts. In 1972, Fran and Carol purchased McClelland Drug Store on Main Street in Lee, which they operated for more than 20 years.
Francis is survived by his wife, Carol Downing of Plymouth, three sons, Peter Joseph Downing of Boston and wife Nubia Isabelle Torres of Bogota, Colombia; Timothy Michael Downing and wife Genevieve de Manio of Carlisle, and Patrick Francis Downing and wife Beth Ann Downing of Franklin, MA. Fran is also survived by his brother, Jeremiah Downing of Carver, and Stephen Downing and wife Susan Downing of Scituate; and seven grandchildren—Natalie, Thomas, Jill, Emily, Caroline, Christopher, and Michael.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Agatha Church, Adams Street at Brook Road, Milton, Tuesday September 15 at 10:30 AM. Family and friends invited. Visiting hours at Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Avenue, EAST MILTON SQUARE, Monday 5-7 PM. Interment Vine Hill Cemetery.
Guestbook Entries
My deepest condolences to Franny’s family. I have such fond memories of him from our younger days, and cherish memories of his laughter and grace.
To Pat & Beth and family,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your dear father & grandfather. I hope you’re able to find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
May God give you the strength in the days to come! So very sorry.
Brigette Robichaud, Glen Pharmer
Dear Carol and Family,
We were saddened to read of Fran’s passing.Please accept our deepest prayers and sympathy.We have so many fond memories of Fran. Among them…McClelland’s,the Josh Billings,coming to dinner when you first moved to Lee and many more.Fran always wore that welcoming smile and always had a witty tale to share.We know you,too, have many fond memories that you all hold in your hearts.Call on them when you need to…it helps to comfort the soul.Continue to share his memories with his grandchildren .
Again.our deepest condolences and sympathy to you,Peter,Tim and Patrick and their families.
To Patrick, Tim, Peter and Mrs Downing,
So sorry to hear of your dad and husband. I have many fond memories of going to your house or hanging out at the food counter at the drug store. Please accept my condolences from me and my family.
Mike Kelly and the Kelly Family
Mrs. Carol Downing:
My Condolences.
I was Fran’s senior year room-mate at Fordham.
He was such a fun person to be around, and his laughter I can still hear. I think I made him laugh a lot.
I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Joe
Dear Carol, Peter, Patrick and Tim,
I was so saddened this morning to read of Fran’s passing. Please accept my most sincere condolences. I have great memories of the early days of the drug store. Fran was not only one of my first clients but also a good friend. I hope all of you remain safe and healthy.