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Jeffrey Downes Obituary
Jeffrey B. Downes passed away peacefully on December 25th. Born on July 19, 1940, he was the son of Morford L. Downes and Pearl Antoinette Brownne of Greenwich. Jeff was born and raised in Greenwich, and was a Greenwich High School class of 1959 graduate. He served in the U.S. Navy. He was owner and President of Morford L. Downes Inc., and also was a successful independent building consultant.
Jeff is survived by a brother Steven Downes of Florida; daughter Lisa Downes Helfrich (Josh), step-son David Stewart (Meg), step-daughter Pam Stewart Wurst (Chris), and step-daughter Susan Stewart (Mike). He is also survived by grandchildren Sean Helfrich, Nicholas Stewart, Virginia Stewart, Ben Wurst and Dan Wurst. He was pre-deceased by his past wife Shirley C. Downes, most recently his wife, Nancy Stewart Downes, brother Richard Downes, and step-son Brian Hilliker.
Jeff was a life member and past Commodore of the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club in Cos Cob, was a past President of the Jaycees, and member of the Town of Greenwich RTM.
Jeff had many interests, and especially loved to fish, boat, travel, cook, and garden. More than anything, Jeff loved to be with friends and family. He especially loved his grandchildren, and glowed in their successes, yet always provided thoughtful wisdom and advice through their trials. He was known for his whimsical rhymes and life stories of adventure and mischief. He truly lived, and encouraged others to live, life to its fullest. He was always extremely generous, had a heart of gold, and loved to bring a smile to the faces of the young and old. Another love was the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club, and the wonderful friendships he formed there.
A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, December 29th from 2:00 – 6:00pm at the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club. 98 Strickland Rd. Cos Cob, CT. In lieu of flowers, always remember to live your life to the fullest.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Downes
Katie Gildersleeve-Sutherland
January 22, 2016
Uncle Jeff was my light. He knew how to make me laugh and forget my problems. He was such an important part of my life, that he will be deeply missed. I love you Uncle Jeff, say hi to Aunt Shirley for me.
Sue Ann Gildersleeve
January 22, 2016
Jeff was so welcoming to me 46+ years ago. One could count on him no matter what, and we did. Our family loved him unconditionally.
January 4, 2016
Our condolence to the Downse Family for your loss. Betty/Roger Lockwood,Summerfield Fla.
January 1, 2016
Our deepest condolences to all of you. Jeff, aka Mr Giggles to Richie, will be missed.
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Bob Gildersleeve
December 29, 2015
Jeff was a wonderful friend for more than 50 years, a great friend of the family and a wonderful God Father to my daughter Katie. He will be missed by all.
Vicky HaRRIS
December 29, 2015
So sad to hear this. Jeff was my favorite building inspector - great guy. Rest in peace, Jeff.
Irene DeCamp
December 29, 2015
My husband, Ron, had great respect and admiration for Jeff. They are together now in Heaven.
Warren Frattarola
December 29, 2015
Steve sorry to hear about Jeff,Prayers to your family
Marie Romaniello
December 29, 2015
Heartfelt condolences to the family. Jeff was a classmate (GHS) 1959. I'm certain he will be fondly remembered by all who have known him. Love & Peace
Janice Liptak
December 28, 2015
Dear family,
"SADDENDED" to see tht Jeff
passed away.
He -'ALWAYS" had a SMILE on his FACE!
Sincerely,
Janice Liptak.
Joyce Lanterna Tracksler
December 28, 2015
Jeff and I were classmates at GHS (1959). I have fond memories of him and wish his family peace. With sympathy, Joyce (Lanterna) Tracksler
Kevin ODell
December 27, 2015
Jeff will be sadly missed by all whom he graced with his smile and laughter... I'm tipping my glass to wish happy boat drinks for he and his wife in heaven
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