Bertha M. Downs

Bertha May Shifflett Downs, 94, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at King's Daughters Health and Rehabilitation Center in Staunton.

Bertha was born on April 19, 1929, in Dyke, to her parents, the late Irvin Lee and Ella Virginia Shifflett Shifflett.

One of Bertha's greatest joys in life was spending time with her grandson and great-grandchildren. She cherished every moment shared with them and created lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

In addition to being a grandmother, Bertha had a passion for gardening. It brought her great joy tending to her plants and watching them flourish under her care. Bertha was also known for her sewing and quilting skills. Her skill and creativity was evident in every stitch. She enjoyed creating beautiful pieces that showcased her talent and craftsmanship. Another favorite activity of Bertha's was taking leisurely walks around Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton. The serene surroundings provided the perfect setting for quiet reflection and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Bertha's deep faith played a significant role in guiding her life. She was an active member of West View United Methodist Church.

Bertha's memory will forever be cherished by those who survive her: her daughter, Cheri Downs; her son, Allen Downs, her grandson, Anthony Downs and his wife, Melanie; her great-grandchildren, Cooper and Sadie Downs; her sister, Ethel Lorraine Shifflett Bosserman; numerous nieces and nephews; and an honorary family member, Raymond Wells.

In additon to her parents, Bertha was preceded in death by her loving husband of nearly twenty-nine years, Claude Alexander Downs; her brothers, Lynwood "Tom," James "Jim" Everett, Luther Lee, Robert McKinley, Joseph Edward, Ernest Russell, Prentiss, and Leady Shifflett; as well as her sisters, Beatrice Virginia Shifflett and Ellen Joy Shifflett Kuger.

A graveside service will take place on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 11:00 AM ar Augusta Memorial Park in Waynesboro with her grandson, Anthony Downs, delivering her eulogy.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions be made to Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center (1001 Mount Torrey Road, Lyndhurst, VA 22952).