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Nelson Downend Obituary
ATHENS, Ga. — Nelson Richard Downend Sr. died peacefully at home on April 4, 2015, at 1:05 p.m. He was 76 years old.
Nelson was born on Dec. 16, 1938, in Dallas, and lived there until the age of 17, when he joined the U.S. Navy. He was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and was sober for 44 years, sponsoring many new members to the group.
Nelson had an active lifetime career in sales and was known for being able to sell ice to Eskimos. He loved a good hot dog, the Philadelphia Phillies and vintage cars. Nelson was an avid reader and lover of the History Channel.
He never knew a stranger because he was friends with everyone he met.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Jacqueline Downend; his children and their spouses, Susan (deceased) and Markus Sorrells, Jim and Dawn Downend, Patricia Downend and Deb Allers, Ralph Downend (deceased), Michael and Nancy Downend Ferguson, Nelson Downend and Katinka Locascio and Nathan and Beth Downend. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and brother, Michael, PortaVarta and Alexandria, Virginia.
Services will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, 4355 Lexington Road, Athens.
The family asks, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to First Christian Church, 268 W. Dougherty St., Athens, GA 30601, to assist in their work with Alcoholics Anonymous.
Lord and Stephens East is in charge of arrangements. For information, visit www.lordandstephens.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nelson Downend
Jerry Lancio
April 12, 2015
Sorry for your loss Michael. My thoughts are with you.
John Sherinsky
April 12, 2015
Nelson my prayers are with you and your family always. you were a great person and made a lot of people smile. God Bless you and your family.
Malcolm Brunges
April 11, 2015
all are prayers with family what a happy go lucky guy, he will be missed.
April 10, 2015
Thoughts of Sympathy are with you today for the loss of your Loved One. May your Fond Memories and God's Promises at Isa 33:24; John 6:40 & Ps 37:9-11,29 Comfort you and give you Hope during your time of sorrow.
Alexandra Wassermann
April 9, 2015
Through stories, photos, and heartfelt emotions I have come to know Nels over the years - however, not in person. His brother, Michael spun tales of boyhood adventures, adult challenges, and major and minor victories. My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Nelson Downend.
Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes East Chapel
April 8, 2015
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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Lord & Stephens Funeral Home - East4355 Lexington Road, Athens, GA 30605
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