James Daniel Downs

I knew him as Mr. Downs and to this day it's hard to refer to him as Jim, though he'd likely insist. I took history courses from Jim. He was a standout among an outstanding faculty at Vista High School and was infamous for letting us know at the beginning of the semester what our final examination topic would be; for example, "Discuss the long-range and intermediate causes of the Spanish-American War." And you know what? It wouldn't take much of a brush up for me to be able to discuss that...

Mr. Downs was a premium teacher along with heading up other academic programs. A phenomenal track coach who pulled off the Vista Relays year after year. Intense proactive energy to a degree that very few schools end up having. An individual of great depth, experience, and intelligence. The old Vista High campus remains essentially the same. Now serving as a magnate middle school. The spirit of Jim Downs remains at that location.

I have been processing a lot about life...my life and I thought about Mr. Downs. I didnt know he had passed. Needless to say I am Beyond grateful to have been his student. I know with 100% certainty that he would have all the right things to say. My life mattered to him and He mattered to me. Thank you Mr. Downs

The memory of his great Vista Relays event at the old Vista campus downtown in 69,70,71, and 72 will always be with me. That was a truly special time and place.

I was in the shower this morning when Mr. Downs crossed my mind. I had last seen him at Betty Free's Funeral Service. I was a tall lanky kid in his class back in 1974, he stopped me after class one day and asked if I would be interested in heaving a discus. He said "With your build you could be a stellar candidate". Mr. Downs always had a way in making you feel special with his calm, soft spoken and encouraging tone. I was far from "Stellar" but did enjoy my time on the team. So I looked him...

I really miss my favorite teacher, coach, mentor and truly great friend.

Didn't have Mr. Downs as a teacher, but had him as a track and field coach. I threw the shot put. He was a teacher who had lived in the area growing up and was more indigenous than the rest.
One of the most stellar teachers at Vista High, but his range of activities was super long too.
One of his major feats I witnessed first hand was the Vista Relays year after year at the old campus downtown.
What an organizational and logistical feat with all the buses of athletes arriving and...

I took Jim Downs' IB Government class as a senior at Vista High School in 1988. Mr. Downs was the finest teacher at VHS and his passing is a loss for the California education system. Mr. Downs' course was a true college level course that reflected both his desire to educate his students as well as his high caliber as a scholar. While I did not share his political point of view, I will nevertheless remember him with warmth and respect. Rest in peace, Mr. Downs!

Years ago, I really enjoyed reading Mr. Downs' thought-provoking columns in the North County Times. Such a uniquely talented writer, and now upon reading of his passing I miss and appreciate him all over again. What an interesting, productive, and adventurous life. My condolences to his family -- he had to have been a wonderful husband and father. Rest in peace, Mr. Downs.