Kay was born December 13, 1946 the daughter of John H. and Rose M (Weakley) Pierce Sr. She was a graduate of Springfield High School. Kay married her soulmate, Jack L. Downs, September 3, 1966 and he preceded her in death July 6, 2018. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Mary Pierce.
After Jack and Kay were married, they moved to Carbondale, IL where Jack attended SIU. Kay adjusted quickly to the area and made lifelong "Salukis" friends. They belonged to The Little Egypt Ski club and enjoyed most summers camping and boating. They would return to Springfield in 1977.
Kay was very talented in Arts and Crafts. She was well known around central Illinois as a vendor at many craft shows and booths. Additionally, she was a caregiver to anyone that needed her love and support. In her eyes, the most important "job" which she excelled in, was staying at home to provide childcare for every one of her grandchildren. Kay was devoted to her catholic traditions and until her health began to fail, a faithful member of Blessed Sacrament Parish here in Springfield.
Surviving are her two children; Christy (Chuck) Rutherford and Lee B. Downs, her grandchildren: Christopher (Kimmy) Downs, Samantha (Allison) Kersey, Joey Downs, Cody (Ceci) Rutherford, Connor Rutherford, Caleb Rutherford and Caitlyn Rutherford, all of Springfield, her great grandson, James Downs, her siblings: Judy (Jerry) Wainman, John “Jack: (Teresa) Pierce Jr., Kevin (Alesia) Pierce, Frank (Kathe) Pierce, all of Springfield and Charles “Chuck” (Loretta) Pierce of Crestview, FL. She has several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St. Springfield, IL beginning with a recitation of the Rosary at 9:30 am followed by visitation until the time of funeral service at 11:30 am at the funeral home. Father Jeff Grant will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded after services. Inurnment will be at a later date in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to Blessed Sacrament Catholic School.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left by the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home. 217-544-5424
