Francis X. "Frank" Downs

Francis X. “Frank” Downs, 84, peacefully joined the Father on Sunday September 21st, 2014. He was surrounded by family who loved him. Frank was born on May 8, 1930, in East St. Louis, Illinois as the 2nd of what would eventually be six siblings. Frank met the woman of his dreams at age 17 and never looked back. Frank married Marjorie Shea on September 3rd, 1949. Frank and Margie just recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. When asked how they had managed 65 years of marriage Frank would quickly tell you that Margie caught him and just never let go. After their marriage, Frank attended St. Louis University and shortly after graduating moved to Los Angeles, CA. This was the first of many moves, from Norman, OK, Houston and Memphis, TN, before finally making his move to Midland where he and Margie remained. During his travels Frank stumbled across the city of New Orleans, LA. From the moment he walked into the first Jazz club he was hooked on the city. He would return there with Margie several times during his lifetime. From the music and the food to beauty and the history, it was the city that he loved.

Frank never met a stranger. He would turn those blue eyes on you and you became a friend. You never left him lacking a smile. Instead you surely had a joke or story that you did your best to remember because you couldn’t wait to share it with someone else. No matter the time or place, Frank had the appropriate story and maybe on some occasions an inappropriate one too.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Margie, his children, Greg Downs (Carol) and Brian Downs (Cindy). Frank also took on the role of father and raised his grandson, Chris Smith (Jill). He is also survived by his brothers, David Downs, Charles Downs and Larry Downs and sisters Serena Downs and Barbara Ann .Frank also leaves behind his grandchildren Shea Downs, Kelly Cole (Scott), Morgan Kersh and Stephanie VanGels (Matt) as well as 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mathilda Downs and daughter, Sharon Kersh.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at Ellis Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2014 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, with Father Francis officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

A ray of light was doused this past Sunday and each day to come will surely be less bright for that. On the other hand when looking toward the heavens last night and contemplating a life that did not include Frank, it seemed that they were shining brighter than usual which made me think of a story I once heard…

Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com