Richard was born on December 20, 1948 in Washington D.C. to the late George Martin Downs and Frances Elaine Downs. Richard was raised in Maryland and Washington D.C. Richard graduated from Crossland Senior Highschool, Class of 67. He joined the army and served 16 years, to include several tours in Vietnam along with duty stations in Korea, Hawaii, and Washington state. Richard was proud of his service to our country and always spoke of his travels across the world.
Richard loved to travel and was an avid collector. Richard enjoyed fishing and loved car trips cross country. Richard visited many different countries and locales in his lifetime. He would constantly add items to his “collection” ranging from Mc Donalds toys to stamps, coins, and figurines. He once owned a military surplus store and at various times in his life had several home businesses. Richard often traveled to Las Vegas to attend the trade shows there. During his later years. Richard, his wife, Ligaya, and son Charlie Downs settled in Kingman, Arizona after residing for years in Bakersfield, California.
Richard is survived by his wife Ligaya Downs; children, Buddy Downs, Rose Branum, Richard Downs Jr, Cindy Lopez, and Charlie Downs; brothers, Raymond Downs, Paul Downs, and Douglas Downs; grandchildren, Nia Downs, Keegan Branum, Keeley Branum, Damen Oser, Alexander Downs, Brennen Downs, Bella Downs, and Christian Lopez.
A devoted father, grandfather, and husband who will be missed by many, Richard’s viewing will be held September 9th, 2022 from 9AM to 11AM at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary with services at 12 noon also at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Graveside services will be held at Bakersfield National Cemetery at 2PM.
