“Rock of Ages,” “Amazing Grace,” “Silent Night.”

After almost 45 years and thousands of hymns, organist and pianist Mary Downey will play her final note Sunday at the end of the 11 a.m. worship service at the First United Methodist Church of Durango.

Before moving to Durango with her late husband, Ralph Downey, who taught music at Fort Lewis College, the 85-year-old also played at churches in other parts of the country, including Pennsylvania. The couple received the Harmony Award from the Durango Narrow Gauge Barbershop Chorus.

Downey’s repertoire was not limited to hymns. She treated church members to a wide variety of classical music during the preludes and recessionals that begin and end the services.

The church is saying thank you at 12:20 p.m. Sunday in the church’s Fellowship Hall, 2917 Aspen Drive. Friends are invited to join in the celebration, which will include several surprises for the honoree.

Herald Staff