Obituary
Mary Elizabeth Downey, born on November 28, 1960, in Wyandotte, Michigan, passed away in her hometown on October 20, 2025, at the age of 64.
Mary was a woman who embraced life with an infectious sense of humor and an authentic personality that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her siblings fondly remember her as "quite the character," always up front and candid, with a knack for making those around her laugh. She had a zest for life that was evident in her love for bingo and an even greater passion for shopping.
Mary's life was filled with love and laughter, and she cherished her family deeply. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Fritz, and her parents, Mom and Pop Woodburn. She leaves behind a loving family, including her siblings: William (Candi) Saum, James (Sonia) Saum, Wynn (Scott) Jarrell, and Amy (Jeremy) Dye. Her granddaughter London, nieces and nephews James, Krista, Mary, Katy (Barth), Levi, Kelsey, Jeremy, Jr., Alexander, and Nicholas, and great-nephew Grant will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. Mary also shared her home with her beloved cats, Spider and Sophie the Cat, who brought her much joy. In addition, Mary leaves behind many extended family members and friends.
Mary's spirit will be celebrated at an inurnment at Michigan Memorial Park, with details to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Mary's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart.
Mary Elizabeth Downey's legacy is one of laughter, love, and authenticity. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten by all who were fortunate enough to know her.