James Francis Downes

09/08/1948 - 11/19/2025

James Francis Downes passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025 at Sunrise of Alexandria, VA. He was born in Dubuque, IA, the third child and oldest son of Capt. Robert and Dolores (Clemens) Downes. During his early years he traveled throughout the world following his father's Naval career. After returning to Washington in 1967, he attended Archbishop Carroll High School. He then served 2 years in the U.S Army as a military policeman in Germany. He graduated from University of Maryland in 1976.

Jim lived on Capitol Hill for 45 years. His career as a computer systems manager included work for IBM, Martin Marietta, to name a few.

He was predeceased in death by his parents and his sisters, Ellen Amen and Anne Kelly. He leaves behind his sister, Mary Susan Gindy and brothers Robert Jr. and Peter Downes. He was loving uncle to 16 nieces and nephews and 32 great nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Alexandria, VA on Tuesday, November 25 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Archbishop Carroll High School, 4300 Harewood Rd., Washington, DC 20017.