John Downes Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our uncle, John J. Downes, who died peacefully at home in New York City on August 3, 2025 at the age of 91 years old. He was born on August 24, 1933 in Pallaskenry, Co Limerick, Ireland to James Downes and Margaret Downes (nee O'Rourke). John was a loving uncle, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by his long-time companion/friend/partner, Zachary Pappas, as well as many nieces and nephews, including more than 15 great nieces and nephews, and 3 great-great nephews.
John Downes was predeceased by his siblings, Margaret, Bridget, Thomas, Marie, Kathleen, James, Teresa, and Joseph.
A funeral mass (no wake/viewing) will be held at St Monica's Church (413 East 79th St., NY, NY) on August 7, 2025 at 10am, followed by burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery (10 W. Stevens Ave, Hawthorne, NY).
John J. Downes
Visitation:
Thursday
August 7th, 2025
8:45 A.M. to 9:30 A.M.
John Krtil Funeral Home
1297 1st Avenue
New York, NY 10021
Funeral Mass:
Thursday
August 7th, 2025
10:00 A.M
St. Monica's Church
413 East 79th Street
New York, NY 10075
Burial:
Thursday
August 7th, 2025
11:45 A.M.
Gate of Heaven Cemetery
Hawthorne, NY
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Noel & Marie Coates (nee O'Rourke) and family.
August 7, 2025
Sincere Sympathy to Zach, nieces and nephews on the passing of John. Much loved by all.
Rest in Peace John.
Anne-Marie Downes & Stephen Co. Limerick Ireland
August 7, 2025
It was with great sadness that we learned of our Uncle John´s passing. One of life´s true gents. He was one of nine siblings & though he spent his lifetime in New York he maintained fantastic contact down through the years with thoughtful cards & visits to Ireland.
With the failing health of his older siblings, when contact mattered most, he made annual visits home to see them. He always came laden with gifts and we always loved them despite our protestations! Zach was like another member of the family & we loved hearing of their exciting cruises & what shows they had seen on Broadway.
Zach, we are very grateful for the great care you took of Uncle John. It shows what a great judge of character Uncle John was, as he knew he´d find no better a companion and friend than you. We know that too.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam Dílis / May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Adrian Downes
August 7, 2025
Rest in peace Uncle John. Deepest sympathy to family and friends especially Zach. Adrian Downes and family (Oregon USA)
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