Roma M. Downen

Roma M. Downen of Columbus, age 95, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at her home. Roma was born on August 9, 1929, in Metropolis, Illinois the daughter of Ralph and Rosa Lee (McGowan) Staten. She married James Warren Downen in December 1948 in Evansville, Ind. Warren preceded her in death in January of 2017. She attended a one-room rural grade school in Illinois and graduated from Central High School in Evansville. After attending business school, she was employed by National City Bank in Evansville and Dalzell Insurance Agency in Kokomo. Before retiring in 1988 and moving to Columbus, Roma was a 65-year member of the Eastern Star Chapter #555 in Evansville, Asbury United Methodist Church, and Mill Race Center. She loved to read and to travel. She and Warren had many memorable trips abroad and cruises as well as all 50 states and Canada. Survivors include the daughter Cynthia Funkey, of Columbus, Indiana; granddaughters, Melissa and Nichole Funkey, both of Washington, D.C. Preceding her in death, her parents, a stillborn baby brother, and her son-in-law, Dr. Richard Funkey. A brief entombment service will be conducted at the Garland Brook Cemetery Mausoleum at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2024, with the Rev. Paul Johnson officiating. Roma will be entombed next to her loving husband. Memorials may be made to Our Hospice of South-Central Indiana or Asbury United Methodist Church through the funeral home.