Doreen Elizabeth Downie

Doreen Elizabeth Downie, affectionately known as “Sunbeam,” passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the age of 87. Her life was a radiant testament to faith, perseverance, and love, and she leaves behind a legacy that continues to warm the hearts of all who knew her.

Doreen was born on June 12, 1938, in Hillside, St. Thomas Parish, Jamaica, to Edna Maud Rose and Alfred Levi Downie. Even before her birth, Doreen was destined to bring light into the world. Her mother, Edna, was told during her pregnancy that she was going to give birth to a "little Sunbeam," and from the very beginning, Doreen lived up to this prediction. Her bright spirit, boundless warmth, and infectious smile earned her the cherished nickname that would remain with her throughout her life. To know her was to feel the warmth of the sun itself, and she was a source of light to all who crossed her path.

In the mid-1960s, Doreen immigrated to the United States, embracing new opportunities with courage and determination. In 1968, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Yvonne, who became central to her life and one of her greatest sources of pride.

Doreen valued education deeply and pursued her studies with dedication. She graduated from Hartford Adult High School in 1972, earned an Associate in Science degree from Greater Hartford Community College in 1975, and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Hartford in 1978. Her professional life reflected her commitment to service and excellence, including her work at Connecticut Bank and Trust beginning in 1970 and later with the Department of Social Services, where she touched many lives through her diligence and care.

Beyond her professional achievements, Doreen found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She loved volunteering in various ministries at Crossroad Community Cathedral, where she was one of the founding members of the choir when the church was still known as First Assembly of God, faithfully serving until her relocation to Florida in 2017. At home or with friends, she was always humming or singing her favorite gospel songs, and she delighted in traveling and immersing herself in the rhythms of calypso music. Her faith anchored her, her music lifted her spirit, and her handiwork was a quiet expression of the love she so freely gave.

Doreen was preceded in death by her mother, Edna Rose, her father, Alfred Downie, her beloved sister Daffodil Chong, brothers Dennis Downie, and Clifton Downie Sr.

She is survived by her cherished daughter, Yvonne Downie, her loving siblings, Calvin Downie, JoAnn DaCosta, and Robert Downie, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will forever treasure her warmth, wisdom, and gentle smile.

Though Doreen Elizabeth “Sunbeam” Downie has transitioned from this life, her light continues to shine in the memories she created, the values she instilled, and the love she shared so generously. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.