Sara Love Downey

Sara Love Downey, or Sally as she most oft was called, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, in the comfort and warmth of her daughter Sara's home in San Juan Capistrano. Sally was surrounded by those she cherished most—her children, John, Olivia, Sara, Laura, several beloved grandchildren, and dear friends of the family. She was 90 years old. Born on August 12, 1935, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sally was the youngest daughter of George H. Love and Margaret McClintic Love. She was preceded in death by her brother, Howard M. "Pete" Love and sister, Margaret "Peggy" Love Stevens. Sally's educational journey began at Chatham Hall in Virginia, followed by her time at Vassar College, where she graduated with the class of 1957??. Her quest for knowledge and passion for helping others led her back to academia later in life. At the age of 51, she earned her master's degree from Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy. Sally's professional life was marked by her profound impact on the field of hospice care. As the Chairman and long-time board member of Horizon Hospice in Chicago—Chicago's first hospice service provider—Sally championed compassionate care, driving significant growth and outreach during her tenure. Her work and leadership left an indelible mark on the community. Sally's heart was as expansive as her interests. From a young age, she developed a lifelong love of horses, often reminiscing about her days foxhunting with the Rolling Rock Hunt in Ligonier, PA, aboard her cherished horse, Angel. Her home at White River Valley Farm in Lyons, WI, was a final home for many retired horses as well as several in need of a good home. Sally thrived in her garden, created many spectacular dinners, loved to travel near and far, always returning with a renewed sense of wonder and adventure, and found joy in singing wherever she was. In her early 80s, she even gave paddlesurfing a try - embodying her continued zest for life. For Sally, every day "couldn't have been better." She greeted everyone with warmth and genuine enthusiasm, whether a lifelong friend or a stranger crossing her path for the first time. Her ability to make each person feel valued and special was a rare gift that she shared widely. Sally was a devoted mother to her children, Laura Scharfenberg, Sara Fix, Olivia Slutzky (married to Alan), and John R. Burr (married to Amanda), and a doting grandmother to 14 grandchildren, who provided her countless hours of entertainment, inspiration, and unequaled joy. For over 30 years, she spent many happy days at her beloved and beautiful White River Valley Farm in Lyons, WI with her husband, James L. Downey. The Farm became a treasured gathering place for family and friends. Sally's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Venus Acosta for her years of love and care, as well as the compassionate teams at Silverado San Juan Capistrano and Ohana House in Mission Viejo, who brought smiles to Sally's days. A private funeral service will be held to honor Sally's life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Chicago Community Foundation, ensuring Sally's legacy of compassion and generosity continues to touch lives. Sally's family holds her memory close, cherishing the love and wisdom she imparted and the vibrant life she led. Her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of all who knew her.