He was born in Atlanta, Nov. 7, 1921. He is preceded in death by Rebecca "Dell" Downs, his wife of 50 years. Surviving Mr. Downs is his daughter, Cheryl Mills of Roswell; his son and daughter-in-law, David and Toni Downs of White; his granddaughter, Allyson Pion of Big Rapids, Mich.; nephews Richard Downs of Alpharetta and Timothy Downs of Palmetto; and the dearly loved members of his extended family.
Mr. Downs was an honored Veteran of World War II. As a member of the Eighth Air Force, 452nd Bombardier Group, he proudly served his country flying 25 missions over Europe.
He was a member of the VFW Post #10822, Dunwoody, and a Life Member of the Eighth Air Force Historical Society, Pooler.
Mr. Downs was employed with Diebold Inc., Canton, Ohio, manufacturer of bank security equipment. He retired from Diebold as the Service Marketing Manager for the Southeast.
A graveside service with military honors will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 15, at Arlington Memorial Park, Sandy Springs, with the Rev. Fred Whitehurst officiating. Sandy Springs Chapel, Sandy Springs, is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eighth Air Force Historical Society, P.O. Box 956, Pooler, GA 31322.