Leola P. Downey

Leola P. Downey, a cherished member of the Ford community, passed away peacefully at home on September 10, 2026. Born on June 14, 1947, in Dodge City, Kansas, Leola was the beloved daughter of Richard and Viola (Spect) Stateler. She was a beacon of grace, love, and faith, and her legacy will continue to light the lives of those she touched. Leola was a proud graduate of Dodge City High School, Class of 1965, and she chose to remain a lifelong resident of the area she loved so dearly. On September 16, 1972, she married the love of her life, Tom Downey, in Dodge City. They shared a beautiful life together until his passing on June 1, 2007. A devoted homemaker, Leola dedicated her life to nurturing her family. She is survived by her loving children: Steve Downey and his wife Gina, of Ford, Rick Downey and his wife Melba, and Mendy McGregor and her husband Roy, both residing in Dodge City. She was also blessed to have a son-in-law, Bruce Berger, who lives in Ensign. Leola's family expanded to include 10 adoring grandchildren: Colton (Kate) Downey, Cody (Lacy) Berger, Taryn Berger (Cooper), Claire (Aaron) O'Hair, Collin Berger, Ryan McGregor, Connor Berger, McCoy Downey, Remington Downey, Myrick Downey and 11 treasured great-grandchildren. Her sister, Vae Kreger, and her husband Jim, of Jetmore, along with two special nieces, Inez Demuth and Joannie Osborn, held a special place in her heart. Leola was a dedicated member of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Dodge City. Her community involvement was extensive; she was an avid bowler and served as the treasurer for the Thursday Morning Coffee bowling team. Leola’s passion for cooking shone through, especially during family gatherings. She was also a 4-H Leader and contributed her time as a Ford County poll worker for elections. In addition to her family and community activities, Leola enjoyed playing bridge and watching over the children of friends and family whenever needed. Her warm and compassionate nature left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Leola was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Marca Berger, her brother Stanley Stateler, her sisters Violeta Brander and Viola "Marie" Wattier, and her grandchildren Maya McGregor and Destry Downey. Despite these losses, her spirit remained unbroken, and she continued to be a pillar of strength for her family. Vigil service will be at 7:00 pm Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dodge City. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Wednesday at the church with Fr. Wesley Schawe and Fr. Ted Skalsky presiding. Burial will follow in Greencrest Memorial Gardens, Dodge City. Visitation will be Tuesday from noon to 4:00 pm at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City. The family kindly suggests memorials to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas or the Ronald McDonald House of Wichita in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14 th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801. Condolences may be sent to www.zieglerfuneralchapel.com Leola P. Downey will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends, who carry forward her legacy of love and faith. She will be remembered for her unwavering strength and the sweetness she brought into the lives of all who knew her.