Steven Warren Downing

Steven Warren Downing, 75, of Valrico, FL passed away on July 22, 2025. He was born on August 19, 1949 in St. Mary's, Maryland to William Hardy Downing and Wilma Holton Downing.

Growing up, Steve worked on his grandparents' farm during the summer and that made a lasting impression on him. He always looked up to his father who was a Naval aviator during WWII.

Steve graduated from Robert E Lee high school in Jacksonville, FL and then went to the University of North Florida and graduated with an undergraduate and master's in psychology. Steve enlisted in the Navy and proudly served his country as an aviation mechanic, later he earned commission after college in the US Army. He achieved rank as Captain and served as tank commander and was a proud Cavalry man.

Steve was also a man of Faith and got involved with prison ministry in Jacksonville and was an usher for his church. In his free time, Steve enjoyed target shooting, hunting, and camping. He liked to spend time with his family, whether it was going out to dinner or going to his kids' hockey and soccer games, JROTC or band events.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly DeShong, his children, Leah (Jesse) Jones, Neal (Saori) Downing, Kristina (Clint), and Jake DeShong, siblings, Marilyn, Paul and Gregory Downing, devoted sister-in-law, Tammie Shaver, and his beloved dogs, Bella, Bear, and Trixie. All will miss him dearly.

The family would like to express special thanks to John Czworka and Steve Scrimizzi, close friends and neighbors.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer you make donations to your charity of choice: Tunnel to Towers, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or any pet rescue organization.

John 11:25-26

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die."

Revelation 21:4

"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

2 Timothy 4:7 reads, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Be kind to each other.

We love you Steve.