Deanna Marie Dowd

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Deanna Marie Dowd on June 6, 2026, at her home, surrounded by love. Born on August 14, 1940, in Schuyler, Nebraska, Deanna graced the world with her presence for 85 wonderful years. She was the cherished daughter of Eileen O’Malley and Leo Dowd, and has now joined them and her beloved brother, Duane Dowd, in eternal rest. Deanna's life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication. A proud graduate of Schuyler High School in 1958, she furthered her education at the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, which laid the foundation for her professional journey. In 1960, Deanna moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, where she built a distinguished career, contributing her talents to the State of Nebraska, Cornhusker GMC, and Midwest Life Insurance. Her work was marked by diligence and a strong sense of responsibility, earning respect and admiration from colleagues and friends alike. Deeply rooted in her Irish heritage, Deanna was the heart and soul of the O’Malley family, a role she embraced with passion and precision. Her incredible memory served as the family’s living archive, meticulously keeping track of the clan's milestones—marriages, births, and the inevitable farewells. She was the embodiment of a family historian, ensuring every story, both past and present, was preserved for future generations. Deanna’s devotion extended beyond genealogy; her family was the center of her universe. She was a loving sister to Larry Dowd (JoAnn), Coni Dowd-Molvig (Charles), Michael Dowd (Marilyn), Colleen Hall (Thomas), and Noreen Shaughnessy (Terry). Her nurturing spirit enveloped her 14 nieces and nephews—Kelley Curley, Matthew Dowd, Meghan Dowd Schlattmann, Jacob Dowd, Aaron Dowd, Kayla Dowd-Kula, Mark Dowd, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, Brendan Shaughnessy, Patrick Hall, Conor Hall, Bridget Shaughnessy, Maura Hall, and Liam Hall—each of whom held a special place in her heart. A devout Catholic, Deanna’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and offering solace in times of need. Her commitment to her faith and community was unwavering, and she lived her values through acts of kindness and generosity. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated caregivers who enabled Deanna to remain in the comfort of her home during her final days. Their support and compassion were invaluable. A celebration of Deanna’s life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Matt Talbot Kitchen, an organization close to Deanna’s heart. As we bid farewell to Deanna, we carry forward her legacy of love, faith, and family. May her memory be a blessing to all whose lives she touched.