Michael Alander "Mike" Downing

Michael Alander Downing, son of William Watson and Rita Downing Dorn, was born August 19, 1962 in Accomac, Virginia. "Mike," as he was affectionately known by family and friends, entered his eternal rest at Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital on August 29, 2024.
Mike received his education in the Accomack County Public Schools. He was employed at both of the local poultry plants, Perdue and Tyson. Mike was a self-appointed guardian of the local laundromat located in Oak Hall, near Food Lion. He proudly wore a TOPFLIGHT SECURITY t-shirt when he reported for duty. A title he embraced with humor and pride. Mike made sure he made it to the laundromat daily. He was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to patrons with their laundry or his voluntary services to the neighboring nail salon. His contributions were deeply appreciated by the community who admired his generous spirit.
A lover of old school music, Mike was known for his emotional engagement with tunes from bygone eras, often moved to tears by the melodies that resonated within his soul. He also had a playful side, bestowing affectionate nicknames on family members as they also gave him a nickname 'Uncle Porkchop."
Michael was a family person, a beloved figure in his community, his legacy of kindness, humor, and compassionate spirit will be remembered by all who had the pleasure knowing him.
Michael shared a special bond with his mother Rita Downing Dorn, who he admired, and maternal grandmother, Bertha Downing. You could find them both at any river, creek, or pond fishing all day. In addition ot his mother and grandmother, his grandfather, Willie Downing; sister, Vanessa Downing Johnson; a son which he loved dearly, Marcus Joynes; and brother, Tabora Bailey all preceded him in death.
Michael leaves to cherish his memories his pride and joy his son, Michael "Rooster" Joynes of NC; father, William "Melvin" Watson of Temperanceville, VA; sisters, Andrea Marshall of Withams, VA, Tina Dorn, Tanya Downing, both of New Church, VA, Glory Downing, Laverne Downing, both of Temperanceville, VA, Anita Hammond of Baltimore, MD, and Shirkea Townsend, Melfa, VA; brothers, Eric Downing of GA, Roland Rice (Denise) of AL, Barry White (Nelva), Michael White, Marvin Mason (Rava), all of Pocomoke, MD, Melvin Milbourne, NC, Troy Kemp (Tina) of GA, Shondell Bivens (Kim) of Fruitland, MD, and Marcella Crippen of Temperanceville, VA; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
We bid farewell to our dear father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend knowing that his spirit will forever shine bright in our lives.
Lovingly submitted,
The Family