Deborah (Debbie) Jean Downs, of Natick, died on June 21 surrounded by an enormous amount of love. She was 55.

Debbie was born on Sept, 15, 1969, in Tewksbury, to the late Frederick Downs III and Beverly McLauchlan Downs. She lived with fierce compassion, boundless generosity and a heart that loved deeply and loyally. When she loved you, you knew it. She expressed gratitude often and emphatically, never letting a kind gesture go unacknowledged.

Her warmth, radiant smile and sincerity left a lasting mark. She was a passionate defender of justice, standing up boldly for what she believed was right — always with courage and conviction.

Music was one of her great joys. She especially loved Bon Jovi, Michael Bolton, Keith Urban, Lady A and Old Dominion, and traveled the country to see them perform.

She was also a devoted fan of Boston sports and followed NCAA March Madness religiously, never missing a bracket.

She gave generously of her time, volunteering for causes close to her heart: The Jimmy Fund (especially the Scooper Bowl), the Special Olympics, the Red Sox Foundation, and the Boston Marathon. She was deeply grateful to the Natick Fire and Police Departments for their many years of care and support.

For over 20 years, she was a proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. She made countless friends through the program and helped many by sharing her story with honesty and heart.

Martha’s Vineyard was Debbie’s happy place — a cherished family tradition and lifelong sanctuary that brought her peace, joy, and connection. Above all, Debbie adored her beloved bulldog, Brewer, her constant and loyal companion.

She is survived by her sister Kimberly Gawlak, brother Kevin Downs and her cherished niece and nephews: Emily Gawlak, Charlie Gawlak and Kayden Downs.

She will be remembered for her fierce loyalty, her laughter, her love of music and justice, and the countless lives she touched simply by being

herself.

A private service will be held on Martha’s Vineyard. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to any of the causes she so passionately supported.