Ann Downing Barney, 61, died March 15, 2015, at a Seattle hospital after a massive heart attack. Born November 12, 1953, in Minneapolis, MN, she was the daughter of the late John B. and Grace L. Barney of Portland, ME. She graduated from the Waynflete School in Portland, ME, in 1972 and from Pine Manor Junior College in Chestnut Hill, MA in 1974.
After college, Ann lived in Amarillo, Texas; Missoula, Montana; and Portland, Oregon before settling in Seattle, WA in the late 70’s. Seattle was her home for the rest of her life.
It was in Seattle that Ann was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Advances in drug therapy and the strong support she received from the mental health system of the State of Washington, as well as from friends and family, ultimately made it possible for her to have an independent, satisfying life in the community.
Ann’s deepest interest was in the Christian religion. She read the Bible for hours daily and enjoyed sharing her faith. The last church she attended, Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, was an important part of her life.
Ann is survived by her stepmother, Sally Regan of Portland, and by three cousins, Sally Barney of Pembroke, MA; Judy Guasconi of Bridgewater, MA, and George Barney of Mundelein, IL. Ann was predeceased by her parents and by her sister, Mary W. Barney.
A memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at 11 a.m. at Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church in Seattle. Interment will be in Portland, ME.
Donations in her memory can be made to Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church (PRLC) Outreach Fund, 7500 Greenwood Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98103 or to the charity of your choice.