Elvis Downs

Elvis Downs, 91, died at his home in Wichita on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

He was born in Wichita on June 21, 1934, the youngest of five sons born to William and Luna Downs.

Elvis married his first wife, Nellie, in the late 1950s. They had three sons: Bobby, Michael and James.

He served in the U.S. Army and Reserves for six years, including a deployment during the Korean conflict.

After transitioning to civilian life, Elvis worked in various roles and then for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail handler. During his time at the post office, he met the love of his life, Veda. Elvis and Veda married on September 11, 1971, and built a blended family together.

Together they took road trips from coast to coast, bowled in local leagues, and raised daughter Debra Turner and grandson Robert. They enjoyed spending time at the lake with their camper and were longtime members of Pine Island RV Park at Grand Lake in Oklahoma. Their favorite times included hosting loved ones at the lake, playing rounds of joker's bingo, and visiting with fellow campers. Elvis never met a stranger and loved telling stories.

After retiring from the Postal Service in 1992, Elvis held roles in transportation services. He worked as a driver for organizations including Youthville, KETCH, and Envision.

Elvis survived cancer and recovered from a back injury, but he never let setbacks slow him down. He lived simply, worked hard and enjoyed time with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Luna; his wife, Veda; sons, Bobby Downs and Michael Downs; stepchildren, Marilyn Curless, Terry Dunsworth, Marvin Dunsworth, Jerry Dodson; and his four brothers.

He is survived by his son, James Downs; daughter, Debra Turner; stepdaughter, Geanetta Renner; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and extended family and loved ones who will fondly remember his stories and his no-nonsense approach to life.

Viewing will be from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2026; Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, all at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Graveside service will be at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Lakeview Cemetery.