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There are many reasons Jim married Mary Lorraine Downs, but her husband of 50 years is better suited to explain exactly why he loves this woman so much.
As James reminisced, he said, “We were married on September 28, 1973, at Our Lady of Victory Basilica. On June 23, 1976, our first-born, Liza Marie, was the beginning of our journey into parenthood. Three years later we were blessed with the birth of the twins, Lindsey Marie and Timothy James.
“We’ve watched them blossom and exceed our expectations. They enjoy just being around their mom, or on the phone with her, often discussing their daily activities or seeking her advice about their problems or worries.
“Her ‘joys’ – the grandchildren, Sean, Christopher, William, Andrew, Sophia and Caroline – keep her busy with all their outside activities. They love spending time with Gram, especially one-on-one. Sophia and Caroline are very involved with Irish Dancing, and Mary loves to watch them perform. Sean, our oldest grandchild, lived with us for a few years, and has a special bond with his grandmother. Christopher, William and Andrew were big into playing ice hockey. Mary is not a fan of being cold but went to watch them play as often as possible”.
Mary loves her Irish heritage and traditions, especially when spending time with her friends and family. She is more than willing to prepare a feast for Thanksgiving, Christmas or any time when the family wants to get together.
Mary makes friends easily, whether it’s on the golf course, going to card club or traveling. Mary does like her alone time, especially early in the morning, while enjoying her coffee and reading her Bible.
In the summer months she really enjoys their backyard, her own private sanctuary, looking out at the flowers and watching the birds as they gather at their bird feeders. She also likes to bake delicious desserts for their family… her specialty is a walnut covered pumpkin pie.
This amazing woman has a great personality, a beautiful smile and is a pleasure to be around because she treats everyone with love and respect.
Mary is devoted to Jim, and over the course of 50 years, she has always been there for him as they traveled down the road of life together. To make a marriage last for 50 years, it does involve a lot of give and take.
At James’ retirement party, he announced to all that, from this day forward his Mary was to be called Saint Mary because of all the crap she had to put up with.
Mary is a devoted wife, a great mom, a loyal friend, who is loving, generous and kind and is someone you can really count on. Mary has a way with family members that is truly special, for her heart is so full of compassion. She loves spending time with family and friends while making memories that will last a lifetime.
She also loves playing golf, shopping, traveling, trying out different restaurants and of course rooting on the Buffalo Bills… often with a glass of wine in her hand!
To James, there is no one he would rather have spent the past 50 years being married to, and he looks forward to the years ahead, for every day is truly a blessing.
“These last 50 years have gone by so quickly, yet there have been so many wonderful memories to cherish. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner, lover or friend! You’re as beautiful today as you were when we first met! You’re a great mother and a better grandmother, and a friend to many. The trick to life is to have as few regrets as possible, and I have none. I would do it all over again without changing a thing.” – Love Jimmy J
