Basil Bayley "Big Bas" Downes Sr.

Basil Bayley Downes Sr., age 88, of Lehigh Acres, Florida, passed away on October 27, 2025.

Basil was born on September 28, 1937, to the late William and Eugenia Downes in the South Bronx, New York.

In 1963, Basil met and later married Rozetta Mitchell on August 15, 1964. Together, they began their lives in Queens, New York, later moving to Roosevelt, Long Island, before settling down in Deer Park, Long Island, where they raised their family.

Basil dedicated his life to providing for those he loved. He retired from the Town of Hempstead, where his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

After retirement, Basil and Rozetta relocated to Lehigh Acres, Florida, where they enjoyed traveling and exploring many wonderful places around the world.

Deeply connected to his roots, Basil served his West Indian community with pride as dedicating 27 years, the longest active member and trustee of CASCOLA (Caribbean American Service Club of Lehigh Acres), carrying his Jamaican and Bajan heritage with honor, joy, and lasting friendships.

He found happiness in the simple things - early mornings on the golf course, a good hunt in the fall, and time spent at the shooting range.

Basil's greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his brother William, sister Francis, and brother-in-law Simeon; his children Basil Jr., Leslie, James, and Latania and son-in-law James; his daughter-in-law Nancy; 13 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Basil Bayley Downes Sr., affectionately known as "Big Bas," will be remembered for his love, wisdom, humor, and the joy he brought to his family, friends, and community. His legacy will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on November 15, 2025, at St. Anselm Episcopal Church, 2201 Sixth Street East, Lehigh Acres, FL 33972.

All flowers and gifts may be sent to the address above.

Arrangements for Basil Bayley Downes Sr. are under the direction of Legacy Options Fort Myers.