Elizabeth Boorhem Downing

Elizabeth "Beth" Boorhem Downing, 76, of Austin, Texas, passed away on April 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of the family she spent her whole life loving, caring for and holding together.

Beth and her twin sister, Barbra, were born on May 30, 1949, in Malvern, Arkansas, to the late William Boorhem and Martha Jane McCormack. She was one of six kids: 2 brothers (Bill and Ross) and three sisters (Ann, Barbra and Harriet). She and her “tribe” had many an adventure growing up in Highland Park (Dallas) and Sherman, Texas. Although she stayed close to all her siblings throughout her life, she shared a special bond with her sister, Barbra – having that “twin thing” that is beyond anyone’s understanding, unless you are a twin.

Beth grew up with a spirit that was impossible to ignore, a laugh that could fill any room, and a personality that was truly larger than life. She was the social butterfly of her family, having never met a stranger and knowing all the “scoop” on everyone in town. In high school, she had a gazillion friends, was a cheerleader for the Sherman Bearcats and lieutenant for the Sherman Hi-Steppers Drill Team, causing her younger sister, Harriet, much envy.

After graduating high school in 1967, Beth attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where she met the love of her life, O.E. Downing Jr. The two married on August 8, 1970, in Sherman, Texas and began building a life together that would span more than five beautiful decades.

After their wedding, Beth and O.E. moved to Baytown, Texas. They spent their days with O.E.’s family making lifelong memories. Their two children, Sarah Jane and Bubba, were born and the family of four began their adventure. Beth and O.E. loved dragging their kids to live music, rodeos, the deer lease, and the Comal River in New Braunfels, infusing a joy for life into the whole family.

In 1983, the family relocated to Austin for O.E.'s job. They loved being part of the Westlake community. They made lifelong friends while pouring themselves into countless days of youth activities and sports. Beth built a meaningful career, working for Thompson Supply before joining Hill Country Care Providers, where she poured her heart into helping families care for their loved ones. She retired in 2016, but her devotion to others never slowed down.

Beth was a force. She was the leader of her family, the keeper of the best stories, and the owner of sayings nobody could forget. She loved fiercely and deeply. She adored cooking, reading, flowers, birdwatching, shopping in Round Top with Debbie, keeping up with the latest fashion with Sarah and Jane, and listening to music, especially Elvis and George Strait. But nothing brought her more joy than her family. Her proudest moments were watching her son, Bubba, play football and witnessing her daughter, Sarah Jane, graduate from UT Austin.

Two of the happiest days of her life were when she welcomed her precious grandchildren, Will and Jane, into the world. They both love and adore their “Beffie” with all their heart. She taught them the importance of having good manners, how to give good hugs, how to bake pies and cookies, enjoy every holiday with their family, and most importantly, how to be good people. Beffie and E.E. picked them up from school almost every day and they loved these afternoons with their grandparents. Every Friday was “French fries and ice cream day”, a day that will always be celebrated for their Beffie.

Beth will be dearly missed by her devoted husband, Orval Ellis Downing Jr.; her daughter and son-in-law, Sarah Jane and David Livingston; her grandchildren, William Ellis Livingston and Jane Winn Livingston. Others who will miss and honor her are her brother, Ross Boorhem, her sisters, Ann Medlin, Barbra Heimbach, and Harriet Boorhem, her best friend, Debbie Fitzgerald, and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Bubba Downing; her parents, William and Jane Boorhem; her brother, Bill Boorhem; her stepmother, Pat Boorhem; her stepbrother, Kevin Hamlin; her loving in-laws Reba and Orval Downing; her brother and sister-in-laws, Jean and Ed Gregersen and Donisse and Paul Kupec.

There is no way to adequately express our thanks and deep love and affection for Beth’s dear friend and long-time caretaker, LaSonya Matts. She has been a rock in the Downing house and a guiding light for Sarah for many years.

Additionally, we would like to thank Beth’s oncologist, Dr. Loukas. She trusted and adored you for your care, knowledge and compassion. Her nurse at the end of her life, Aaron, was also a godsend, gently guiding us through the most difficult decisions concerning Beth’s care.

Beth walked with the Lord all her days, and her faith was the foundation of everything she did. She now rests in the arms of her Savior, reunited with those she loved who went before her.

Beth and O.E’s song describes their love perfectly, "I love you more today than yesterday, but not as much as tomorrow." We will so miss hearing you say that and will love you forever.

A Celebration honoring her life will be held April 24, 2026 at 11:00a.m. at Northwest Community Church, 6420 Hart Lane, Austin, Texas 78731.

A reception will be held immediately following her service at The Home of Cindy and Steve Livingston.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The American Cancer Society.