Elvira L. Downey

Elvira L. Downey (Lee), 81, of El Paso, Texas, passed away on January 21, 2011 after a short illness. Best known as Elvie by friends and family, she was born on January 25, 1929 in the Philippine Islands. In 1949, Elvie married the dear Captain Willem Downey until his demise in 1990. She is survived by two devoted sons: David and Darrell; two caring daughters-in-law, Tammy and Sylvia; five precious grandchildren: Kristine, Carol, Andy, Alyssa, Jake, and Julia; brother, Ramon; cherished friends of the Ellis family, as well as, many other beloved family and friends. Her loving parents, Pedro and Victoria, and brother, Louie, preceded her in death. Elvie graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree from El Paso Community College in 1980 and served proudly in the civil service until she retired in 1988. Elvie was an active member of the community and military with strong ties to her Filipino heritage. She was a founding member and president of the Filipino American Association of El Paso, a member and officer of TROA (The Retired Officers Association), a realtor with Century 21 APD, as well as, known passionately as a slot machine queen. She had a strong catholic faith and now rests peacefully in Heaven with her dear husband, Willem, and Christ, our Lord. May she find the comfort she has been searching for in both as she guards over her family and friends. Elvie’s beautiful spirit and heart will live on forever in those whose lives she touched so deeply. Visitation will be held from 9am-11am with a Vigil/Rosary to begin at 11:00am and a Scripture Service to begin at 12pm on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at Sunset Funeral Home located at 4631 Hondo Pass Drive in El Paso (915)755-4494. A Committal Service will be begin at 1pm at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery located at 5200 Fred Wilson Road (915)564-0201. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Homes-Northeast.