Barbara J. (Hammer) Downs

Barbara J. (Hammer) Downs, a Needham resident for over 44 years died suddenly on Sunday, November 14th at her home. She was 71 years old. Born in Buffalo New York the daughter of the late Charles and Marjorie Hammer, Barbara was a graduate of South Park High School. Barbara went on to graduate from Buffalo State College where she also earned a Masters Degree in Education. Barbara married her husband Bob in 1964 and settled in Needham in 1966. She was a longtime, active member of the Carter Church where she was a member of the Choir and volunteered with Senior Luncheons. Barbara was a 42 year member of the Heritage Chorale in Framingham. Active in the Needham Community, Mrs. Downs was a Needham Town Meeting member, member of the Republican Town Committee and the Women’s Republican Club. She enjoyed playing Bridge and was an avid and competitive tennis player. Barbara was a member of the Needham Pool and Racquet Club. Above all, Barbara was an enthusiastic and devoted Grandmother. The beloved wife for 46 years of Robert A. Downs and loving mother of Laura and her husband Todd Young of Millis. Devoted grandmother of Mia Young. A Funeral Service will be held at the Carter Memorial United Methodist Church, 800 Highland Ave Needham on Saturday, November 20 at 10AM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Friday from 4-7 PM. Interment Needham Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations in Barbara’s name may be made to the Carter Memorial United Methodist Church, 800 Highland Ave Needham MA 02494 or to Heritage Chorale, P.O. Box 1335, Framingham, MA 01701-1335.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara J. (Hammer) Downs, please visit our floral store.