Michelle “Missy” Rae Downs, age 65, of Lake in the Hills, passed away on July 11, 2025. She was born August 31, 1959 in Evanston, IL to her loving parents, Donald and Joyce (née Olmsted) Calvert.

Missy worked at True Value (Cotter & Co.), where she held several roles including accounts payable, purchasing, and inventory control. Later in life, she embraced a new challenge as a school bus driver for Districts 47 and 155—adding, as she liked to joke, “a little stress” to her life. Her humor and resilience were ever-present.

For over 30 wonderful years, Missy was married to her best friend and partner, Michael. Together they shared countless evenings on their backyard deck, listening to music and relaxing with their beloved dogs. One of their favorite traditions was attending Milwaukee’s Summerfest—24 years in a row—creating a cherished string of summer memories.

Missy was a woman of many talents. A gifted artist, her home is graced with her beautiful paintings. She was also a black belt in taekwondo, showcasing her determination and quiet strength. Missy loved deeply—both people and animals—and her gentle, welcoming nature was impossible to miss. She was known for waving to strangers, offering a smile, and always caring for others.

Even during her final days, Missy's compassion never waned. After her diagnosis, she continued to greet visitors with kindness, often wishing hospital staff and guests a good day as they left her room. Her grace and warmth remained unshaken to the end.

Missy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and art. Her bright smile and kind heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered by family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

Missy was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Calvert; nephew, Ross Wiegman; and father-in-law, Arnie Downs. She is survived by her husband, Michael Downs; sons, Bernard and Matthew Spina; mother-in-law, Kathy Downs; siblings, Deb (Ric) Wiegman, Laura (Joe) Shroeder, and Brian (Sue) Calvert; and many aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial will be held from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, with funeral service at 3:00pm, Friday, July 25, 2025, at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Road, Cary, IL 60013. Fr. Akan Simon will be officiating.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Missy's name to the Animal House Shelter in Huntley, IL.

Final arrangements entrusted to Kahle-Moore Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-639-3817.