Mary Margaret Downey, 82, Shiretown Nursing Home, Pictou, passed peacefully away on Thursday, October 1, 2009 in the Home. Born June 8, 1927, in Great Codroy, Nfld, she was the daughter of the late James Alban and Rose Elizabeth (Young) Downey. Margaret was "little sister" to four older brothers and "big Sister" to four younger brothers. Because of this special status and some health problems, she was loved and cared for by all. Margaret was her mother's helper in caring for the family as well as tending the local post office and telephone central, all of which she thoroughly enjoyed. Her early days at Shiretown Nursing Home were happiest when she was working at crafts, playing cribbage or Bingo. She enjoyed knitting, sewing and trivia games. Margaret was very happy at Shiretown, the staff made sure she was comfortable and helped her to maintain her sense of humour. She enjoyed hearing jokes and then telling them. She also enjoyed reciting poetry and will be remembered for her recitation of "The House with Nobody in It" by Andrew Joyce Kilmer. Surviving are her brother, Ralph Downey, Glengarry; many nieces and nephews, including her only god-child, Jeanette Downey, Ottawa, Ont.; sisters-in–law, Bridget Downey and Lucy Downey, Codroy Valley, Nfld; long time friend, William Skehen who entertained her so often with his piano playing and his singing. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by brothers, Bertram, Kevin, Fintan, Aloysius, Walter and Robert; nephew, David Alban Downey; sisters-in-law, Jean Downey and Evelyn Downey. The family will receive visitors from 1 – 1:50 p.m. Saturday, October 3rd in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home Chapel, New Glasgow where funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. with Father Peter MacDonald presiding. Interment will be in Lorne Cemetery. The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff and doctors at Shiretown Nursing Home for the exemplary care Margaret received.