Fred M. Downey

Fred M. Downey, age 73, of Sunbury, OH, passed away on May 4th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Fred was born on January 29th, 1952, to Hazel and Howard Downey in Columbus, OH, the youngest of 7 brothers and sisters.

Fred attended Brookhaven High School. He was a true snowbird, staying in Ft. Myers, FL, throughout many recent winters. He loved visiting the different scenic beaches around Fort Myers, Sanibel, Captiva, and Matlacha Islands. He loved taking walks at six-mile cypress where he would take pictures of alligators, eagles, and other nature. The famous Southwest Eagle’s nest was a short walk from his mobile home that we all enjoyed visiting. Fred always loved having visitors, trying new restaurants, sightseeing, and simply being around family that he loved dearly. His favorite time of year was Christmas, which was always full of family, love, laughter, and, of course, the gifts he spoiled his children with every year.

His favorite show was The Chosen and he would never turn down any treat involving peanut butter or chocolate. He liked to read his bible with his coffee every morning before whiling away the hours out front of his house on his swing.

Preceded in death by his brothers Bill Downey, Dave Downey, Kenny Downey, Howard “Buddy” Downey, and his sister Myrna Holland.

Fred is survived by his sister Frieda Schutte, daughter Heather Downey, and son Paul Downey, along with countless beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Celebration of Life to be held on June 21, 2025 at Centerburg Christian Church.    

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.