Richard Francis Downs

Richard Downs passed peacefully, after 94 1/2 remarkable years.

Richard was born in St. Louis MO, to Velma and Donald Downs. Richard spent his formative years in Missouri. His family subsequently moved to the West Coast, to Aptos, CA.

After time in Aptos, the family, moved to San Francisco, where Richard graduated from Sacred Heart High School. He then continued his education at USF, until joining the military.

Richard’s time with the US Army took him to Alaska, during the Korean War. Once he completed his military service, Richard returned to the Bay Area. It was during this time that he completed his education at Cal Berkeley and met the love of his life, Mary.

Mary and Richard were married for 53 years and welcomed two children, Deidre and Tim. Their early family life was spent in Santa Clara, CA. In 1972, Richard and family moved to Fresno, where he lived until his passing.

Richard enjoyed a successful accounting and finance career for many years. He also enjoyed traveling in his later years, including several overseas trips.

Richard’s enthusiasm for life, sense of humor, and curiosity, carried him until the end of his life.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Deidre, brother Bob, wife Mary, nephew Jim and niece Kathy.

He is survived by his son Tim, sister- in-law Kathy, 9 nieces and nephews, 10 grand nieces and nephews and 8 great grand nieces and nephews. Richard will be greatly missed.

Richard’s Celebration of Life will be on June 11, 2026, 12:30PM: St. Clare’s Chapel, Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, 490 Lincoln St.