Donna Jean Downard

Donna Jean Downard, lovingly known as “Grammy,” passed away on August 11, 2024, at the age of 78 in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by her adoring family. Born on January 4, 1946, in Galesburg, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of Paul and Ruth Downard. Though preceded in death by her parents, Donna’s legacy of love and devotion lives on through her family.

Donna’s memory is lovingly carried on by her daughters, Lesley (James) Sereno and Keena Berwald; her grandchildren, Dyllan (Jazmine) Berwald, Ryan (Amanda) Sereno, Shelby (Corey) Decker, Megan Sereno, Logan Gomez, and Olivia Sereno; and her great-granddaughter, Genevieve Sereno. She is also remembered by a multitude of extended family members and treasured friends.

Donna’s journey took her from her roots in Canton, Illinois, to various places, including Peoria and Decatur, Illinois; Miami, Florida; Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Knoxville, Tennessee; and finally, to San Antonio, Texas, where she settled in 1983. Her academic achievements were as diverse as her travels, encompassing degrees and certifications with Associate Degrees in Interior Design and Legal Assisting, Bachelor of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and certifications in Special and General Education.

Donna’s career was marked by her pioneering spirit and dedication. She broke barriers as one of the first uniformed female police officers with the Miami-Dade Police Department in January 1972 and contributed to the criminal justice field in Florida and Texas for over a decade. Her true passion, however, was teaching. Inspired by the remarkable Anne Sullivan and her work with Helen Keller, Donna embarked on a fulfilling career as a Special Education teacher beginning in 1996. For over 20 years, she touched the lives of countless children with special needs, embodying the compassion and commitment that defined her.

Retiring from teaching in 2016 from East Central School District in San Antonio, Donna continued to inspire and support her colleagues and friends within the education community. Her fierce independence, adventurous spirit, and boundless creativity were matched only by her deep love for her family. Whether through travel, sewing, arts and crafts, or cooking, Donna’s vibrant presence was felt by all who knew her.

Donna’s family was the center of her world, and her greatest pride and joy came from her relationships with them. Her profound impact and the love she shared with those around her will be forever remembered. Donna Jean Downard will be dearly missed, her legacy of love and dedication enduring in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be September 7, 2024, 2pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78218. A reception will take place immediately after the services for all loved ones. Donna took such joy in celebrating life together. The family would like to honor her by asking friends and family to wear colors, particularly her favorite color purple. If you would like to make a donation in Donna’ name, please make one to her favorite charity, St. Jude's Children's Hospital. We cordially ask that any deliveries arrive on Friday, September 6th before 5pm.