Russell "Russ" E. Downing

Russell “Russ” E. Downing, 96 of Chandlersville, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026 at the Beckett House in New Concord.

Russ was born in Blue Rock, Ohio on November 10, 1929. He is the son of the late Herman “Bud” and Leona (Lawrence) Downing. Russ worked at Borden’s Dairy for thirty-four years and was a lifelong farmer in the Chandlersville area. He was committed to his community and proudly served as Salt Creek Township Clerk for twenty-eight years. Russ enjoyed woodworking, caring for his cattle, and lending a helping hand to anyone in need. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family.

Russ is survived by his daughter, Tyna “Ty” Dailey; his son-in-law, Charlie Eddleblute; his granddaughters, Leslie (John) Robbins and Tonya (Ron) Kreis; his great-grandchildren, Brodey Hensley, Kinley (Colton) Kreis Hickey, and Kamryn Kreis; his great-great-grandchildren, Charlee, Walker, and Hadley; his brother, Ron (Cindy) Downing; his brother-in-law, Gene McDaniel; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, special farming neighbors the Deal family, and countless friends.

In addition to his parents, Russ is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Florence “Flo” (Clapper) Downing, whom he married on November 27, 1947, and who passed away on December 23, 2003; his daughter, Janet Eddleblute, who passed away on December 19, 2017; his siblings, Betty (Mac) McCrary, Norma (IV) Boykin, Helen McDaniel, and an infant brother, Richard.

Visitations will be held from 11 AM to 1 PM on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Farus Funeral Home of Duncan Falls. A funeral service will take place following visitations at 1 PM. Pastor Keith Taylor will officiate the service. Russ will be reunited with Flo and Janet in Chandlersville Cemetery.

www.farusfh.com