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Donald DOWNS Obituary

DOWNS, Donald George 72, died on October 17, 2020. He was born in Tampa, the son of George W. Downs Jr. and Betty Wimberly Rodriquez. In 1960, he moved to Orange Springs, FL where he graduated from Melrose High School. He proudly served in Vietnam in the U.S. Army and was an Army recruiter in Shreveport, LA. While in Shreveport, he earned his degree from LSU. Don returned to Tampa in 1977. He was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Bob. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Glenda Downs; sister-in-law, Judy Downs; nephews, Jim Downs and Shane Downs, and many members of his extended family. Don was a kind and honorable man who served as an irreplaceable and steadying force for his family. His presence will be deeply missed. A small family burial service will be held at Myrtle Hill Cemetery on Saturday, October 31 at 1 pm.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tampa Bay Times from Oct. 28 to Oct. 29, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald DOWNS

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6 Entries

Simone Taylor

October 29, 2020

Please except my deepest sympathies as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of God, family and friends.

JW/JKH

October 28, 2020

My deepest sympathy to the Downs Family for the loss of your loved one, Donald George, and pray God gives you comfort, peace and strength.

Pam Pafford

October 28, 2020

Amie Devero

October 28, 2020

Don has been like a substitute father to me for over 10 years. He treated me and both my dog and cat like his own family. Whether caring for my pets while I was traveling or picking me up from the hospital after surgery, I can barely imagine life without his steadfast friendship and generosity. He came to know my own family through shared Christmas dinners and helping my mother as helped me following surgery. I told him many times that I wanted to reciprocate his kindness. But, as the end grew near, there was too little time to fulfill that promise. I deeply regret that he wouldn’t let me do more as he struggled these last few months. My heart goes out to all of you as family members, and I share your sadness at Don’s life being cut short. I will miss him so very much.

Kathie Haskin Upshaw

October 28, 2020

Donny was always so good to us kids when they all came out to Orange Springs. We always enjoyed their visits, they always seemed to have so much fun! We are thinking of y'all. Love, Kathie

Betty Britt

October 28, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

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Memorial Events
for Donald DOWNS

Oct

31

Burial

1:00 p.m.

Myrtle Hill Cemetery

FL

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