Ruby G. Downer

February 15, 1934 - February 13, 2020

Ruby G. Downer, age 85, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 1:15 A.M. on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville, Illinois. She was born on February 15, 1934 in Peoria, Illinois, the daughter of John and Mildred (Britton) McFarland. She was married to Joseph Poole from 1954 until 1976, and later married William “Bill” Downer on November 30, 1982 in Marian, Illinois. Ruby is survived by her husband, Bill Downer of Galesburg; her children: Raymond Peckenbaugh, Jr. of southern California, Roger Poole of El Paso, Texas, Joel (and Susan) Poole of Jacksonville, Florida, Marina Surratt of Rapids City, South Dakota, Mary (and William) Kemper of Galesburg; a step-son: William Downer of Peoria; sixteen grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Patricia Cox of Arkansas and LaVerne (and Kate) Conner of Edgewater, Maryland. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, and one brother. She loved to travel and read. Her life was full of joy, and she will be dearly missed. Cremation rites will be accorded. A celebration of Ruby’s life will be held at a later date. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home & Crematory in Knoxville, Illinois is assisting the family with her wishes. Memorial contribution may be made in Ruby’s honor to Alzheimer’s research.