Carolyn C. “Carol” Downe of Needham died on Monday January 16, 2006 at Avery Crossing in Needham. A native of Medford Carole grew up in Medford graduating from Medford High School in 1929. She continued her education at Smith College and graduated in 1933. Carol and her husband Charles raised their family in Needham, where she has lived for 53 years. Carole spent many years volunteering for local organizations. She volunteered for the Red Cross and was a member and former President of the League of Women Voters. She served in many capacities in the Congregational Church of Needham, most notably as a Deacon and as a member of the Outreach Committee. Nationally, she served on the United Church of Christ Board of Homeland Ministries and the City Missionary Society. She became the first women chairperson on the Board of the City Missionary Society. She enjoyed reading, was a bridge enthusiast, and loved to garden. Carol was the beloved wife of 48 years of the late Charles E. Downe who died in 1988. Loving mother of Richard A. Downe of Sidney, ME, Margery D. “Peggy” Brady of Westport CT and Barbara D. Rukstalis of Walpole. Sister of Richard Carr of Kennebunk, ME. Carol is also survived by her 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at the Congregational Church of Needham 1154 Great plain Ave on Friday January 20th at 2:00 PM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. In lieu of flowers, donations may be payable to the Congregational Church of Needham, Memorials and Special Gifts, Charles Downe Fund, 1154 Great Plain Ave Needham MA 02492 or to Asera Care Hospice , 40 Washington St. Wellesley, Hills MA 02481. Arrangements by the Eaton Funeral Home in Needham.