Matthew Patrick Leo Downey
March 24, 1944 to May 19, 2024
Obituary
For those unable to attend the funeral, there is a livestream link available. Please click HERE to watch.
With breaking hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of Matt Downey Sr. on May 19, 2024, his life cut short from a battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He passed peacefully away in his home in the arms of his loving kiddos.
He was a loving Dad, Friend, Brother, Son, Husband, photographer, race car driver, mechanic, electrician, adventurer, and a listening ear to many a soul in need of a friend.
He cared deeply about the people in his life and was always willing to lend a hand. He had the soul of a poet, the eye of an artist, the hands of a craftsman, and the ear of your best friend. He raised his family on great music, the landscape of this province and sharing that second cup of tea. Words cannot express our grief over his passing… but we are doing our best.
He leaves to mourn a long list of family and friends. His children Nadine Downey Chaulk (John), and Matthew Downey Jr (Jenny); siblings Brian Downey (Mary Elizabeth), Brenda Ball (Gary), Dianne Flynn (Derm), and Michelle Hendry (Wayne); many nieces and nephews. His found family – Henriette Brandts Buys, Eva Musseau, Judy Ryall, Janet Fairley, Elke Dettmer, and so many others.
Predeceased by his loving wife Phyllis Downey (Ryall); mother Agnes Downey (Kennedy); father Matthew Downey, and begrudgingly the family cat Cinnamon, as well as many other family and friends.
Resting at Carnell’s Funeral Home, at 329 Freshwater Road, St. John’s.
Visitation on Tuesday, May 21st from 2-4pm and 7-9pm; Wednesday May 22nd from 10am-12pm with funeral service to be held at Carnell’s Memorial Chapel Wednesday May 22nd at 12:30pm.
Please note that Carnell’s is a NUT FREE building due to a staff member with severe allergies. Any food should be brought to the main office.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on May 21, 2024
7-9 p.m. on May 21, 2024
10 a.m.-12 p.m. on May 22, 2024
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
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funeral
12:30pm, Wednesday May 22nd
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
Condolences to the family. Matt and I spent many hours together in our passion for photography he was a dear friend and will be missed/
Matt and Nadine,
Your dad was always so nice and patient towards me and all of Matt-the-younger’s friends when we were growing up — from kindergarten right up to when we each moved away from Home for other schooling. I remember that whenever I would call the house and ask for “Matt”, he’d always say in a drole tone of voice “Matt Jr., or Matt Sr?” and sometimes he’d ask after how I was doing and we’d have a brief chat before he gave younger-Matt the phone. Humour always seemed to come easily to him, as well as his cheerful, easygoing manner. My sincerest condolences to you both, to all of your family, and to Matt Sr.’s other loved ones in the wake of this heartbreaking loss. He was such and kind and caring person — a true gentle man. May his memory be a blessing that comforts you all through this time of tremendous grief.
Knew Matt from many years in Camera 35 Club and he was always a joy to be around. That smile and friendly disposition was a big bonus along with the photography lessons. Rest in peace my friend and sincere condolences to the family.
Sorry to hear of Matt’s passing. Our thoughts are with you at this time. Take care.
We are so saddened to hear of Matt’s passing. He was such a loving, giving, gentle soul, with a wonderful sense of humour that we loved to see at large family events when we visited family in Newfoundland. He was so incredibly artistic and talented, as well: he took the most beautiful photos of our renewal of vows in 2006 that we will treasure always.
With much love, and our prayers and condolences,
Heather (daughter of cousin Marilyn), David, and Rowan Luckow
Michelle and family, l’m sorry to hear of the passing of your brother. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Judy so sorry to hear of Matt’s passing!I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Treasure all your memories of him.May he rest in eternal peace. Bev
Nadine and Family,
Thoughts, prayers and condolences on your Dad’s passing.. I followed your messages on Facebook: no doubt it has been a difficult journey for everyone.
Take care of yourselves..
Joan Peddle
Grew up across the street from the wonderful Downey family. Can honestly say that Brian was my mentor in my musical endeavors. In recent years, I was close to both Matt and Phyllis as they were loyal and frequent customers at my Topsail Rd. computer shop. I will always remember Matt’s wry sense of humor and big honest smile. Rest in peace, brother..
Nadine & Family: Sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. Things will never be the same but time will help easeb the pain. According to the comments from friends & family, you have lots of memories to treasure. Sending our deepest condolences & thinking about you during this difficult time. Take care. Verna & Melv
To Matt’s family, I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing. I have wonderful memories of growing up with him and Brian in the “old” neighborhood in the east end and of our school days at St. Bon’s. Matt was a gentle soul and a loyal friend. May he rest in eternal peace
Kevin
Condolences to all the family and friends of Matt. He was a true gentleman to all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Dear Brian and family,
Your dear brothers sounds like a wonderful man who I wish I had known! It is clear that he valued relationships and went out of his way to support his family and friends. What a good life! May your memories bring you peace and fill your heart.
Michelle and Family
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your brother. We will keep you in our prayers during this difficult time.
Gail and Dave
Michelle and Family, Brenda joins me in sending our condolences and prayers for today and for the days ahead.
Diane, My thoughts & prayers are with you & all your family at this sad and difficult time.I did not know Matt but knowing you I know he was a wonderful person. God .bless.💕