Susan Maki (Downey)
September 13, 1946 – March 1, 2026

Susan Maki, born Susan Downey on September 13, 1946, in Weymouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, surrounded by her family, following a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Alfred “Jack” Maki; her brother, Tom Downey; and her parents, John and Gertrude Downey.

She is survived by her daughter Debbie Gurley and her husband Jerry, and their sons Nicholas and Jonathan, daughter-in-law Lana, and Nicholas and Lana’s children, Elliana and Nicholas Jr.; son Michael Maki and his wife Lisa, and their son Conner; and her daughter Jennifer Howser and her husband Ed and their sons Thaddeus and Forrest.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Lee Downey (Gould), wife of the late Tom Downey; her nephews Tom Downey, his wife Julie and their son Jack; Sean Downey his wife Karrie and their children Carolyn and Connor.

Susan married Jack in Boston, Massachusetts in September 1966, beginning a devoted partnership that would span more than five decades. Over their 53-year marriage, they made homes in Atlanta, Georgia; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Chicago, Illinois; and Houston, Texas.

Susan was a dedicated homemaker while raising her children and skillfully managing her family’s cross-country moves. Through those experiences, she discovered her love for real estate, which blossomed into a successful 30-year career helping families find homes of their own.

A devoted Catholic, Susan attended daily Mass at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church. Her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her service to others. She volunteered throughout her children’s school years, taught CCD at church, and proudly served as President of the Tulsa area Little League for several years. She rarely missed a sporting event and supported her children with unwavering dedication.

Susan also had a special love for her dachshunds — Reggie, Gertrude (“Gerti”), Frankie, and Rocky — who brought her great joy and companionship.

Celebration & Funeral Services:
A Celebration of Life will be held at Crowder Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 10, from 5:00–7:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 11, at 10:30 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the church’s Family Life Center.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at The Shores of Clear Lake and Light Heart Memory Care for their devoted care and compassion, and North Star Hospice for the love and kindness they showed Susan and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Susan’s name to the St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church “Legacy of Love” Capital Campaign.

Susan will be remembered for her strength, leadership, deep faith, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of her life.