July 30, 1961 – April 5, 2025

With profound sorrow we announce, Patricia “Patty” Smith Downey, a loving wife, cherished sister, Aunt and friend to many, passed away on April 5, 2025, at the age of 63. She was a lifelong resident of Cary and Crystal Lake, where she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and unforgettable memories.

Patty was born on July 30, 1961, to Willard and Virgene Smith. She grew up surrounded by her seven siblings. Patty is survived by her brothers, Thomas Smith, James Smith (Betty), and her sisters, Susan Lindsley (Gary), Sharon Kunz- Ormsby, and Mariann Hoeft- Werderitch (Greg) and a large extended family of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Williard and Virgene Smith, her brother Steve Smith and her twin brother Charles Smith.

Patty was married to her beloved husband, William “Bill” Downey. Together, they formed a foundation of love and partnership that was a source of joy and strength throughout her life. She is also survived by her three stepchildren, Jessica Halloran (Sean), Erik Downey (England), Emily Friedline (Jon) and three grandchildren.

Patty’s life was a celebration of family, and she remained deeply connected to her roots in Cary and Crystal Lake throughout her years.

During her 20+ years at Epson, Patty played a pivotal role in the company’s success. She was an integral part of the team responsible for the groundbreaking LCD screen technology used in the first cellular flip phones. She traveled extensively across China and Japan, where she coordinated high-level deals between Epson and Motorola

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Patty had a deeply compassionate and caring side. In the final years of her parents’ lives, she devoted herself to caregiving, providing love and support during that challenging time.

She loved her family dearly, always the first to offer support, and was a fantastic hostess who filled her home with laughter and joy.

A celebration of Patty’s life will take place on April 26th, and we invite you to join us in honoring her memory. The day will begin with a gathering at Windridge Memorial Park (7014 S Rawson Bridge Rd, Cary, IL) at 9:30 AM, followed by a heartfelt celebration at Makray Memorial Golf Club (1010 S Northwest Hwy, Barrington, IL) from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. We welcome your presence as we come together to remember and celebrate Patty’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Veterans Garage. Manteno Veterans Home c/o Greg Brenneisen at One Veterans Drive, Manteno, Illinois 60950.