Linda Lou Downing

Linda Lou Downing, 78, of Freeport, IL, passed away Monday, July 8, 2024, at FHN Memorial Hospital. She was born January 22, 1946, in Freeport, the daughter of Robert E. and Bertha (Krueger) Weier. On June 29, 1969, she married Robert Downing Sr. in Freeport. Linda was a member of Bethany United Church of Christ. She was a 1964 graduate of Freeport High School and a 1991 graduate of Highland Community College. Linda had a passion for children. She was a preschool teacher and daycare supervisor. She loved growing flowers and all things nature. Her other hobbies include reading, quilting, and sewing.

She is survived by her son Robert (Lori) Downing Jr. of Topeka, KS; daughter, Sarah (Dan) Hutmacher of Freeport; two grandchildren, Hannah Downing of Stockton and Allie Downing of Topeka, KS; one great-grandchild, Angus White of Stockton, IL; foreign exchange daughter, Dr. Saskia Albers of Bochum, Germany; brother David Weier of Iowa; and we can't forget her furry child Meeka. Linda's love and care for her family, especially her role as a mother and grandmother, will always be remembered.

Preceding Linda in death are her parents, husband, and three brothers, Durwood Weier, Hazen Woody Weier, and Bob Weier. And one sister, Alice Weier.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2024, at Bethany United Church of Christ. Pastor Leon Ishmon III will officiate. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Linda’s memory.