Obituary of Donna J Dowden

Donna Jean Dowden, nee Smith, 80, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Morristown Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. She was born and raised in Cape May, the daughter of the late Donald Fithian Smith and Jean Alberta (Lyons) Reeves.  After attending local Cape May schools, where she made many lifelong friends, Donna graduated from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) with a degree in elementary education.  Donna was a passionate educator, both in the NJ public school system, and later, as a beloved kindergarten teacher at Immaculate Conception School in Somerville. She took great pride over the years in all of her students, setting them on the path for a lifetime love of learning.

Donna was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.  She dedicated her life to her family, instilling in them strong values, great love, and kindness.  Donna was a voracious reader and a talented artist who loved to paint and knit.  She enjoyed engaging in intellectual and political discussions, and rarely missed a day without completing her crossword puzzles.  Known as “Mimi” to her special grandchildren, Donna was immensely proud of their achievements and enjoyed every minute of watching them grow.  Her beloved children and grandchildren will certainly be her greatest legacy.

She was predeceased in 2010 by her husband of 40 years, James T. Dowden, former longtime Mayor of Bridgewater.  Donna will be greatly missed by her 4 children and their spouses: Tara Anne Hoey and her husband Brian of Lopatcong Township; Erin Patricia Mullee and her husband Martin of Mendham; Megan Kerry Dowden of Bridgewater; and James Patrick Dowden and his wife Sarah of Cohasset, MA.  She leaves behind her 11 cherished grandchildren: Sean Padraic, Kerry Anne, and Colin Ryan Hoey; Jack Edward and Keira Catherine Mullee; Michael Colin and Patrick Joseph Carrete; and Ryan Seamus, Rory Elizabeth, Claire Brigid, and Owen Patrick Dowden.  She is also survived by her brother Lynn Lyons Smith and his spouse John Algard of Cape May.

Donna will never be forgotten, and her loving spirit will continue to guide her family and all those who were blessed to know her.  Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, July 18 from 4-6 pm at Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home, 101 South Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday, July 19 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, 111 Claremont Road, Bernardsville. For further information, or to light an online condolence message please visit www.gcfuneralhome.com

Memorial contributions can be made to Boston College for the Donna J. Dowden Messina College Scholarship, ℅ Boston College Office of University Advancement, Cadigan Alumni Center, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA. 02467.  Ever the teacher, Donna firmly believed in the impact that education can have on every child’s life.