Jeanette B Downs

Jeanette B. Downs, age 93, of Celina, Tennessee, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and cherished memories. Born on February 1, 1933, in Dayton, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Robert Boerstler and Helena Keebler Boerstler.

Jeanette was a trailblazer in the banking and financial industry. She began her career at Ocala Federal Savings & Loan in 1961, later continuing with Mid State Federal Savings & Loan following its acquisition. Through dedication, intelligence, and perseverance, she advanced from teller to Regulatory Compliance Officer and eventually became First Vice President of Mid State Federal, the first woman to hold that position. She also made history as the first woman to serve as President of the East Central Florida Chapter of Financial Managers. Jeanette was a graduate of the American Savings and Loan Institute and was the recipient of numerous financial honors and awards throughout her distinguished career. She retired in 1988 after many years of devoted service.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jeanette was deeply involved in her community and church. She served as President of the Pilot Club of Ocala, Florida, and was a devoted member of St. Joseph of the Forest Catholic Church in Ocklawaha, Florida, where she lived prior to moving to Nashville in 2008. She played the clarinet in the church choir, served on numerous church committees, and actively participated in local community theater productions, organizing events and directing several plays.

Jeanette embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. She loved traveling and especially enjoyed cruising to Alaska and visiting Hawaii and the Grand Canyon. She found happiness in fishing, gardening, music, and spending time with those she loved.

She is survived by her son, Don Downs and wife Vilinda of Celina, Tennessee; daughter, Bonnie Wright of Earleton, Florida; grandsons, Clayton Downs, Brian McRae, and Barret McRae; granddaughters, Bevin Michewicz and Becky Balderson; and brother, William Boerstler.

In addition to her parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, John Downs; brothers, Jack Boerstler and Jim Boerstler; and sister, Roberta Sheffield.

Visitation for Jeanette will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026, with graveside services following at 3:00 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Funeral Home, 1101 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, Tennessee 37210. For additional information, please contact the funeral home at (615) 255-4193.