Jane Poisal Downey

Jane Poisal Downey, a beloved mother, wife, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on September 6 at the age of 92. Her boundless energy, love for life, and dedication to helping others were evident in every aspect of her life.

Born on March 26th in Martinsburg, West Virginia to Dorothy Gordon Poisal and George Jacob Poisal, Sr.; Jane’s mother Dorothy was an accomplished artist and musician who instilled in her children a love of music. Jane and her sister, Mary Anne, and her brother, George (affectionally know as Buddy) formed the ‘Poisal Trio’ singing group that performed weekly on the local Martinsburg radio station WEPM. The ‘Poisal Trio’ also performed at many functions and events throughout the area. The trio was renowned for their beautiful harmonies. Jane’s singing was a lifelong passion that brought her, and all that heard it, great joy.

Jane graduated from Saint Joseph’s High School in 1950 and then majored in Physical Education at Shepherd College. After student teaching at the old Charles Town High School and receiving her teaching degree, Jane attended Duke University and earned an MS in Physical Therapy. At Duke, Jane found a strong purpose in treating children with disabilities that remained with her all her life. Jane practiced Physical Therapy at Newton D. Baker Veterans Hospital, and then became the department head of physical therapy at both Kings Daughters Hospital and City Hospital in Martinsburg. Later, in the mid 1980’s Jane started her own physical therapy clinic, “Shenandoah Valley Physical Therapy”. Jane practiced physical therapy until 2019, achieving the distinction of being the longest practicing physical therapist in the history of the state of West Virginia.

Over the years, she touched countless lives, helping patients regain their strength, mobility, and confidence. Her dedication to her work was unmatched, and her patients and colleagues alike admired her expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to their well-being. Jane discovered her love for sports early on, dancing and swimming in her youth, and biking with her friends later in in life which became one of her greatest joys. Jane received a number of cycling awards throughout her later years, including several triathlon trophies.

Her faith played a central role in her life. As an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Martinsburg congregation and choir, Jane devoted herself to her community, participating in church activities, volunteering, and supporting those in need. Her faith guided her through life’s challenges and joys, providing her with strength and comfort.

Jane married Jack R. Downey Sr. of Martinsburg in 1957. They lived in and near Martinsburg the rest of their lives and having five children. Jane is survived by her loving children: Ellen Downey Kees, Lt. Col. Jack R. Downey Jr. (Ret) (Dawn), Anne Downey Barrat (Robert), and Robert Gordon Downey (Michele) Jack Sr. and their son, William R. Downey, her sister Mary Anne, and her brother, George “Buddy” preceded Jane in passing. Jane is also survived by her beloved sister, Dorothy Coy (Farrell). Jane is further survived by her nine grandchildren, all of whom meant the world to her: Alexandra “Alex” Kees, William “Will” Downey, Katharine “Kate” Downey, Robert “Robbie” Barrat, Thomas “Tom” Downey, Laura “Bea” Barrat, Gwendolyn “Gwen” Downey, Ella Downey, and Noah Downey. Jane also was an aunt and great-aunt to many beloved nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A viewing will be held at Brown Funeral Home, 327 W King St, Martinsburg, WV at 6-8pm on Saturday September 21, 2024.

A celebration of her life will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 220 S. Queen St, Martinsburg at 1pm on Sunday September 22, 2024, with a grave side service to immediately follow at the Falling Waters Presbyterian Church, 2928 Hammonds Mill Rd, Hedgesville, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of the Eastern Panhandle, or the Shriners Hospitals for Children, reflecting Jane’s commitment to helping others and giving back to her community.

Jane will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Online condolences may be offered at www.Brown FuneralHomesWV.com.