James E. Downs 87, of Hemlock died Friday, January 22, 2021 at Genesis Hospital from Complications due to COVID-19.
James was born on July 22, 1933 in Shawnee, one of nine children to the late Grace (Cronin) and Michael Downs.
James along with his wife owned and operated Downs SOHIO/BP service station in Moxahala for 30 years. A member of the Tatman’s Gap Methodist Church. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help all members of his community. James served in the United States Army from 1953-1955. He was a member of the Corning Masonic Lodge 584 F&AM. The most important part of his life was the time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Surviving are his children, James Downs and Jerry (Kimberly) Downs; his grandchildren Janet (Dustin) Householder, Michael Downs and Abigail Downs; his great-grandchildren, Wesson Householder and Owen Householder and his siblings, Floyd (Judy) Downs, Charles (Pam) Downs, and Harry (Carole) Downs.
In addition to his parents. James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Dorothy Marie (Reed) Downs who died April 19, 2017 and his siblings, Richard Downs, Jacob Downs, Robert Downs, Betty Campbell, and Leona Clapsaddle.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday January 26, 2021 at THE J.E. HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME 118 W. Walnut St SHAWNEE Ohio. The elderly and most vulnerable visitors are encouraged to visit 4 to 5 p.m.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 27, 2021, at the funeral home, with the Rev Ernest Eing Officiating.
James will be laid to rest next to his wife at Community Garden Cemetery. Graveside Military Honors will be conducted by the Somerset American Legion Leo Ryan Post 58.
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