Thomas W. Downs

Thomas Wayne Downs, known by his family and friends as Tommy, passed away on September 28, 2024, at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debbie; daughter Christina Setlow (Craig), son Jason Downs; grandsons Austin and Craig Setlow, Jr. (or CJ); sister Bonnie Whetsell; nephews Wayne Whetsell (Michele) and Michael Frye; and nieces Madelyn, Morgan, and Meghan Whetsell. He is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Kathleen Downs, brother Nelson Downs, and niece Sherry Riley. Born on February 16, 1953, in Leesburg, Virginia, Tommy was a lifelong resident of Leesburg, attended Loudoun County High School, and worked for 38 years at the old Xerox Document Center, now known as The National Conference Center. He was a member of Leesburg United Methodist Church and the Leesburg Moose Lodge #1041, but his pride was being a lifelong member of the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company (LVFC). Joining LVFC in 1971, he served in various offices - from Assistant Engineer to Chief - throughout his time and was on the Board of Directors for close to 20 years. One of his proudest moments was when his son, Jason, followed in his footsteps and also joined LVFC. Tommy will be remembered for his humor, friendship, leadership, and love and devotion to his family, particularly his wife and his grandsons Austin and CJ, who were his pride and joy. All are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, October 4, 2024, at Noon at Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg, 201 Edwards Ferry Road, N.E., Leesburg, VA 20176. Public visitation will begin at 11:00 am. Internment will immediately follow at Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company, 61 Plaza St., Leesburg, VA; or the American Cancer Society.